5 replies to this topic

[saintblues]

got my hands on this 1275 motor. unknown condition. previous owner advised was going but recommended checking rings etc. and doing light refurb before reusing. turns over freely. took the head off and it as per pics. 

 

cylinder 4 looks like its had a leak? head gasket?

 

 

 

 

Edited by saintblues, 11 June 2025 - 10:26 AM.

[timmy850]

I’d think it’s got water in it while sitting with the valves open, or had a leak from the gasket. Did it have a manifold or carb on it?

[68+86auto]

If the bore isn't pitted it will likely still be usable. Many people have saved rusted seized engines without disassembly and yours isn't seized.

[saintblues]

I’d think it’s got water in it while sitting with the valves open, or had a leak from the gasket. Did it have a manifold or carb on it?

 

came with no carb or manifold on it.

 

If the bore isn't pitted it will likely still be usable. Many people have saved rusted seized engines without disassembly and yours isn't seized.

 

some light scouring on the bores but all smooth otherwise. 

[Aridgerunner]

I would give it a full rebuild. I recently did this with my MG metro engine that was running fine when taken out of the car years ago. The bore was passable but when I removed the cam, lifters and oil pump I was shocked. Three of the cam lobes were noticeably worn down, all of the cam followers were pitted and the oil was severely scored. Amazingly the crankshaft was perfect.

[Cooperman]

Best advice is to do a proper full rebuild.

Bore to the next oversize and fit new pistons, check the crankshaft journals and re-grind as necessary, check cam and bearings and replace as necessary, fit new oil pump the timing gears/chain. Clean head and fit new valve guides and seals. In fact, make it like a new engine and it will give long service. You can incorporate a better cam and pistons at the same time, skim the block & head and put the compression ratio at c.9.75:1.

It will be money well spent.