16 replies to this topic

[stevede]

The 'lump' can be removed and the rods re-balanced.
With a 286 you'll be using up to around 6700 rpm, so a centre main strap is a MUST.
Make sure you select pistons which will take those sustained high revs.

 

 

Thanks for your reply Cooperman

 

I have read your posts in the past where you recommend the use of 21253 (minispares) would these be acceptable?

 

Regards

 

Steve

[stevede]

I've been giving this a lot of thought and reading / exploring and I'm as confused as ever.

 

What I have discovered (I think) is that to get the best out of the 286, I probably need to spend a fair bit more on some of the internals that I had planned to ensure they are up to the job.

 

A look around for alternatives has pointed me to the Swiftune SW5. Down on power overall, but bags more torque from the off and what I miss from the ultimate top end, I will probably make up for in the more refined driving characteristics. It also means that I don't need to worry about the internals reaching 7k and should hopefully last a fair bit longer.

 

One additional question on the con rods. I have had the centre bearing cap machined by a pal for the strap and Vizards book suggests similar for the "A con rods (with a groove rather than all off). Does anyone have any experience of this and do I need to do similar at the little end to compensate. Obviously will need balancing when complete.

 

As always, opinions, views and advice welcomed.

 

Thanks in advance

 

Steve

 

ps. And if I'm not mad, if anyone wants to make a decent offer on a brand new (Blank) Kent 286