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An update... My engine now has main bearing, rod bearing and camshaft journal clearances that are within spec. Put the motor back in the car and started it up.
Now we have oil pressure #s that make sense. At 195F coolant temperature, 40 PSI at idle at the pump (measured under the oil filter), and 37 PSI at the camshaft button using 0-40W oil. Previously I would have had 20 PSI, and 10 PSI using 15-50W oil. This with just a .0005 increase in main bearing clearance. It's why having excessive wear due to bad oil, or cold oil (not waiting for the engine to come up to temperature) is a bad idea...
Additionally, my engine turned over slowly as if the battery was bad. I knew this wasn't the case and suspected I had failed to connect the ground strap from the torque tube to the body. A quick check under the RHS confirmed it. If your car doesn't crank well, I would check this ground strap for corrosion as part of your inspection.
Now, if only Katie's Cars and Coffee would start back up!
I don’t remember if you said why the initial clearances weren’t to spec. A case of the builder knowing more than you do, or not looking at the specs? Pretty frustrating having to do all of this work twice, but glad you’ve got everything as it should be.
I don’t remember if you said why the initial clearances weren’t to spec. A case of the builder knowing more than you do, or not looking at the specs? Pretty frustrating having to do all of this work twice, but glad you’ve got everything as it should be.
A case of a very competent builder who knew better than the specs I gave him. There are advantages of being looser so tightening up isn't an obvious thing to do... I was impressed how much a little change actually mattered. And the good news is that I can now get a motor out in 8 hours and back in about 12...
I am finally where everyone else with their AM. This thing is a blast to drive. Lots of bottom, enough roar even with the stock vacuum valves intact, and a terrific road feel. My E39 M5 is quicker, and easier to go fast in (hard top), but I am really liking this car.
Brembo USA sent me a heads up that they are having a sale this weekend. Might need new rotors, but for now I am happy. So much fun! Broke down and bought vanity tags for it - OOIII as every other Bond reference was taken!
@AM4884 Great write up on this rebuilt performed! Have read thru it several times and got an oil pressure 'kit' myself for ease of mind obviously. The kit I purchased c/w a 1/8 NPT male adapter but from looking at your picture I'd like to get your confirmation that the adaptor you screwed into the head (LH bank) is a 22x1.5mm thread, so I'm sure to order the right angle-adapter myself, thanks.
