Tips on how to rebuild an engine

garnold · #1 12-07-2013, 10:49 PM

I've seen some pics of great cubs that have been restored around here. What is the best practice to rebuild the engine? My father asked around and was told that some folks get their engines boiled to clean them up? That might be a bit extreme for me specially if the engine is in working order. I would assume I would have to take every single part of the engine apart to have something like this done. How are you all getting them clean and then how do you get them painted without getting all the small parts and linkages stuck up? I'm guessing you still have to pretty much dismantle these things to get them cleaned and painted?

_DX3_ · #2 12-08-2013, 11:21 AM

I just set my 128 motor down into a plastic tub minus the carb, starter, PTO, and flywheel. I use Kerosene and assorted brushes to wash and clean the block real good. If I don't plan on spraying primer on the motor at that point, I just leave the kerosene on it to keep from rusting. When ready for paint, I use carb cleaner to spray down the motor then use an air hose to blow it dry and begin painting. I pretty much use this same procedure on the frame and the rear end. To remove paint from the rear I will spray a couple of cans of oven cleaner on it then use the kerosene to wash it down with. This probably isn't the best way, but for me it is the easiest.

gmbadgley · #3 12-08-2013, 02:08 PM

Late night at the car wash with a few cans of degreaser.

J-Mech · #4 12-08-2013, 02:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by garnold

I've seen some pics of great cubs that have been restored around here. What is the best practice to rebuild the engine? My father asked around and was told that some folks get their engines boiled to clean them up? That might be a bit extreme for me specially if the engine is in working order. I would assume I would have to take every single part of the engine apart to have something like this done. How are you all getting them clean and then how do you get them painted without getting all the small parts and linkages stuck up? I'm guessing you still have to pretty much dismantle these things to get them cleaned and painted?

When rebuilding an engine, it is pointless not to disassemble it completely. Just plan on it. Whoever bores the block can hot tank it. Sometimes it will save you labor to somewhat clean it first. Most places it doesn't matter. They charge a flat rate to boil and clean the block. IMHO, if you aren't going to do it right, don't bother. These motors mostly have lasted 25-35 years. If you do the rebuilt right, it will last that long again.

Also, I have stated here many times, that is you have never rebuilt an engine before, do not attempt it on your own for your first time. Have either a friend who has help you, or work closely with a machine shop who will help. Seen people do it for the first time with good luck, but more fail. Not being mean, or making fun of anyone, just a simple fact. As a professional, I suggest getting a price from a professional. Sometimes we don't think we can afford the price..... till your doing it again. Not trying to discourage, just being honest about it.

garnold · #5 12-08-2013, 08:11 PM

The engine rebuild is really the only thing I'm worried about. I think I'll have to pull my uncle in on this maybe. Thing is the engine was just rebuilt by the PO that is a mechanic at the local shop. It also really sounds great but I don't want to mess anything up with paint or engine cleaner.

Merk · #6 12-08-2013, 08:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by J-Mech

When rebuilding an engine, it is pointless not to disassemble it completely. Just plan on it. Whoever bores the block can hot tank it. Sometimes it will save you labor to somewhat clean it first. Most places it doesn't matter. They charge a flat rate to boil and clean the block. IMHO, if you aren't going to do it right, don't bother. These motors mostly have lasted 25-35 years. If you do the rebuilt right, it will last that long again.

Also, I have stated here many times, that is you have never rebuilt an engine before, do not attempt it on your own for your first time. Have either a friend who has help you, or work closely with a machine shop who will help. Seen people do it for the first time with good luck, but more fail. Not being mean, or making fun of anyone, just a simple fact. As a professional, I suggest getting a price from a professional. Sometimes we don't think we can afford the price..... till your doing it again. Not trying to discourage, just being honest about it.

X2
The machine I used hot tanks the block.