8 replies to this topic

[daemonchild]

As the title says please.
I'm removing a 998 lump from my project car shortly.

I've drained the fluids tonight and aim to start disconnecting the ancillaries tomorrow and friday (whole day at it!! - I mean, um, "working from home".)
So once it's out, what's the best way to treat it?

Do I need to block holes?
I need to turn the engine regularly I guess? (Er, how best?)

I should say, the reason for coming out is to sort a gearbox problem, so it will be split.


Question Two:

While we're here, are there any opportunities that I shouldn't miss while the engine is out(eg clutch?).
I've no idea whether the clutch is any good as I've driven the car a few miles at most (and the gearbox has a problem, so it would be difficult to tell!)

I plan to degrease and paint of course.

Ta.

[Cooperman]

If the engine is to be stored for a long time, say over 2 to 3 months, then you should 'inhibit' it. To do this take the plugs out and put either Waxoyl or a mixture of EP80 thinned with petrol down the bores and turn the engine over to ensure that this mixture coats the bore walls. Then blow some of this mixture into the inlet and exhaust tracts.
Put the plugs back in and cover any apertures with duct tape. Then just store it until you want to work on it.
Whilst an engine is off the 'box and before re-fitting, it's always a good idea to check it over by removing each big-end cap and main bearing cap and inspecting/replacing the bearing shells, checking the crankshaft end float and changing the thrust bearings, changing the oil pump as these are low-cost but wear quite quickly. Also check/replace the timing chain.
A new clutch centre plate is also a good idea whilst the flywheel is off.
Just check all other parts like clutch thrust bearing, timing chain, etc.

[bmcecosse]

Put oil in the bores (just engine oil I say!) - and plug the head ports with oil soaked rags. Wrap it in ploythene sheet - and keep it under your bed !

[daemonchild]

Thanks guys.
It'll be off for a while, and not running for a couple of months at LEAST.
So I'll look after it...

What happens when I want it running again out of interest?!

Under the bed? The wife will GO NUTS!

It's been sat in the car and was last run in July this year.
Do you forsee any problems with this? I shouldn't think so myself as it's all sealed and oiled so to speak.

Edited by daemonchild, 30 September 2009 - 09:54 PM.

[Cooperman]

It'll be fine.

[bmcecosse]

Naturally - you don't TELL your wife! Your engine will be fine - don't worry about it!

[daemonchild]

Thanks fellas!
Feeling a lot happier about this.

It was running like a sewing machine before, so I think it's a reasonable starting point.

[Cooperman]

You know, folks go on about 1275, 1330, 1380, etc, but the sweetest engine readily available for the Mini is still the 998. I say readily available as the 1071 'S' engine was the best in terms of smoothness combined with torque and power (don't mention the 970, IMHO an 'orrible engine, all revs and no torque or power).

[daemonchild]

You know, folks go on about 1275, 1330, 1380, etc, but the sweetest engine readily available for the Mini is still the 998. I say readily available as the 1071 'S' engine was the best in terms of smoothness combined with torque and power (don't mention the 970, IMHO an 'orrible engine, all revs and no torque or power).

My 'on the road' mini has a 1275 and it's great. But it's does seem a bit unrefined in comparison.
So much .. well .. stuff bolted on just to keep it going. (Ok, so it is a 1993 version. One of the last with a carb).
The engine bay looks so messy in comparison!