Ed Burger wrote:
This Sunday or Saturday, I'm sending my nonrunning '65 Spit to the body
shop. It takes around 3 to 4 weeks for something to get done there.
Anyway, I was thinking about pulling out the engine and working on it in
the meantime. My questions were: Is it worth the effort of pulling it
out? How hard is it to pull out? Should I rebuild it while its out?
If it doesn't run and hasn't ran in 10 + years, what should I do to it
while its out?
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1) Yes, it is worth the effort to pull it.
2) It is pretty straightforward, and not at all difficult IF you have a
cherrypicker hoist to lift the motor and gearbox from the chassis in one
unit. I recommend leaving them bolted together, as it is a hell of a lot
easier to get to the bolts that way.
3) Should you rebuild? Depends. How did it run before it was parked? Have
you tested compression? Checked bearings for rod knock? I would suggest
that BEFORE you remove it, do a few simple tests, e.g., change oil, plugs,
etc., hook up new battery and try to start the motor. Hear any funny
noises? This last question really depends upon too many variables to answer
here.
Ross D. Vincenti
64 Spitfire 4 (undergoing surgery)
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