‘6Speed’ Member Gives Aston Martin DB9 an Engine Overhaul
Low oil pressure threatened to kill low-mile Aston Martin prematurely, but 6Speed member is determined to save it.
When it comes to exotics and supercars, we typically focus exclusively at cars that are in fantastic condition already. Vehicles with low mileage that have been cared for immaculately, or ones that are simply brand new and fresh off the truck. But what about classics that need a little love and attention? We certainly don’t want to see them wind up in the parts bin, that’s for sure. Especially when you’re talking about a classic Aston Martin like the DB9 6Speed Online member AM4884 recently picked up.
“After 18 months of looking, I finally bought an Aston Martin DB9 to augment my current collection. I found a car that had starved the oil pump. When I drained it, only six quarts came out. I bought it eyes wide open and the price made it worth the effort. I am either a genius or an idiot. At this point I’m not sure.”
Obviously, pulling a V12 from an Aston Martin isn’t exactly an easy job. But the OP clearly looks up to the task from the start. In the comfort of his home garage, he begins the tedious process, which requires separating the body from the frame. It’s a complicated procedure for sure, and one that required the use of a few special tools.
“I had to fabricate a few tools. The e-brake to backing plate springs are too narrow to just use a hose clamp. So I took some shim stock and made a release tool. Cheaper than the $120 from Aston Martin. I built a couple of work frames from furniture dolleys and 4x4s. I only have a 8′ garage, so a MaxJax 6 is all I can fit. It’s sufficient to bring the car up and out of the way. I’ll need to go up some more to get wheel the assembly out.”
It took a lot of work, but the OP eventually got the engine and subframe separated from the rest of the car. He then began to pull the engine apart, at which point he could assess the damage.
“Turns out, the pistons didn’t seize. But it did spin the bearings on pistons 3 & 9 (they share a journal). I have seen worse, and was expecting worse, so this was really good news. Now I just need to get everything cleaned, and the crank either turned/ground/polished depending on what we decide after measuring it. Lots of little stuff to do, but it looks straightforward from here.”
Soon, all of the necessary parts were dropped off at a local machine shop. Little by little, all of the new and refurbished goodies were trickling back in. At this point, the Aston Martin engine is almost completely back together and ready for reinstallation. So be sure and head over here to follow along as this fascinating project nears the finish line!
Photos: 6Speed Online Forums
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