+2S Engine removal to fix oil leaks
Posted: Mon Mar 19, 2018 10:27 am
Morning!
Today I am pondering the oil leaks in my S130. I have engine and gearbox leaks. So I think I will need to pull both units out of the car at some point (in the future!) , and I'm wondering about the best approach. I read this thread:
lotus-twincam-f39/how-remove-engine-t16246.html
..and it seems to advocate removing the head with the engine in situ, then pulling the engine out, leaving the gearbox in place. But as ever, there are many options. For example:
I think the question is: how hard would it be to do the third option? I have a hydraulic engine hoist and will buy a rig to allow me to set the engine angle. Can the propshaft flange be left in place (so that the propshaft comes apart at the splined joint), and if so how difficult would it be to reassemble compared with unbolting the flange?
As the engine leaks are my biggest concern, maybe I should just pull the head and replace the timing chest gasket (which is definitely leaking on both sides, at the rear)? However, I've been told that pulling the 'box will allow me to fit a breather to it.. decisions, decisions!
I do have an engine stand, which I would love to use for this as it will give good access to the engine for cleaning and repainting. I could even fit a new water pump while I'm at it (as a precautionary measure - the existing pump is fine). Naturally new oil seals at the crankshaft (both ends). Check the fuel pump and distributor seals. Check the breather tubes. Of course, there is the risk of disappearing down a rabbit hole and ending up with a full rebuild ("because you know, the engine's out, so might as well") but there is probably no need as I have good oil pressure and excellent compression figures. The temptation to decoke the head and lap in the valve seats will be strong, but I must resist..!
What do you think?
Today I am pondering the oil leaks in my S130. I have engine and gearbox leaks. So I think I will need to pull both units out of the car at some point (in the future!) , and I'm wondering about the best approach. I read this thread:
lotus-twincam-f39/how-remove-engine-t16246.html
..and it seems to advocate removing the head with the engine in situ, then pulling the engine out, leaving the gearbox in place. But as ever, there are many options. For example:
- Do as the thread suggests!
- Pull the engine only (with the head in place).
- Pull the engine and box with / without the head in place (my preferred option if I'm honest)
I think the question is: how hard would it be to do the third option? I have a hydraulic engine hoist and will buy a rig to allow me to set the engine angle. Can the propshaft flange be left in place (so that the propshaft comes apart at the splined joint), and if so how difficult would it be to reassemble compared with unbolting the flange?
As the engine leaks are my biggest concern, maybe I should just pull the head and replace the timing chest gasket (which is definitely leaking on both sides, at the rear)? However, I've been told that pulling the 'box will allow me to fit a breather to it.. decisions, decisions!
I do have an engine stand, which I would love to use for this as it will give good access to the engine for cleaning and repainting. I could even fit a new water pump while I'm at it (as a precautionary measure - the existing pump is fine). Naturally new oil seals at the crankshaft (both ends). Check the fuel pump and distributor seals. Check the breather tubes. Of course, there is the risk of disappearing down a rabbit hole and ending up with a full rebuild ("because you know, the engine's out, so might as well") but there is probably no need as I have good oil pressure and excellent compression figures. The temptation to decoke the head and lap in the valve seats will be strong, but I must resist..!
What do you think?