3 replies to this topic

[I_like_Opeth]

I have a 998cc goldseal engine that's been removed from a running car and it's been sitting in my back yard for about a month, covered with plastic sheeting. I was recently told by someone that leaving an engine outside will ruin it That sounded a bit mad to me. Is there any truth to it? Any particular parts that could be damaged by leaving it outside?

I've built a kit car myself and I've been on a kit car forum for a number of years but I've never heard anything like that. I got this engine so I can have a go at rebuilding mini engines. Maybe it's just me

Thanks for any info

[minislapper]

If it's going to be stored indefinitely, take the plugs out and fill the gaps with oily rags. Remove anything which might corrode. Just make sure it's safe from the elements. Should be ok outside for a while.

[THedooBZ]

you can leave a car standing for a while before it wont start, so i guess the same applies to leaving it out of a car.
you could turn moving parts to make sure they dont seize indefinately, there wont be any oil flowing around but if you just turn it by hand it shouldnt cause a problem.

rebuild the thing and get it back in a mini!!!!!!!

[Dan]

Generally when it's fitted to a car all the connections are connected to things, so moisture can't get inside. If it's not all hooked up then damp atmosphere will enter through the breather system, inlets and exhausts, cooling connections etc. It can have bad effects sometimes but generally as long as the head is still fitted it's OK. Some major engine builders keep their core stock outside, as long as you accept that it is for re-building anyway and don't just stick it in and try to run it as is without checking if damage has been done it's fine.

But if the head has been removed, it will take only days in the winter for the bores to rust very deeply. Remember the bores are very raw iron indeed with only a thin coating of oil over them, a little bit of very damp air is all it takes.