This car has 87,000 miles on it. I don't know when it was last overhauled. I
am asking the PO now.
I recently got a Colortune and followed the instructions to get the proper
mixture. I did that only a week before the ring broke. I hope that didn't
cause the problem. Water temp never got over 195.
Ned Smith
BJ8
near Chattanooga, TN
N34.98 W85.5
-----Original Message-----
From: Michael Salter [mailto:msalter@precisionsportscar.com]
Sent: Monday, April 17, 2006 9:18 AM
To: 'Yellow 65BJ8'; 'Ned Smith'; 'Austin-Healey List'
Subject: RE: The Head is Off
Hi again Ned,
Robert is correct; sometimes with a relatively low mileage engine you can
get away with a "patch up" and, when done carefully, these can deliver good
results and my message was probably over pessimistic in that respect.
Three things that I would add to Robert's list of requirements for
satisfactory engine life are a good cooling system, correct ignition timing
and careful mixture settings. Most piston and ring failures (especially when
these appear some considerable mileage after a rebuild) are attributable to
problems with ignition timing or excessively lean mixtures. These can cause
piston damage through prolonged detonation, or overheating, as of course can
a poorly maintained cooling system.
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