Saturday, February 11, 2017

Rocket's Engine

Today, I had two tasks.

Number one was to replace the exhaust gasket on Razzo. It was blowing when I got home from the Oyster Tour. With a ride tomorrow to Steinhatchee, it had to be replaced. This was easily done.

Number two was to check the spark plug tightness on Rocket. The plug blew out on a short ride last Sunday, causing me to change the plug and reinstall a new one on the side of the road. I put the new one in, but was not satisfied with the tightness.

I used a new extension that worked with a 1/4" ratchet, so not too much leverage. I tightened the new plug lightly, but found it to not tighten, offering no resistance. So I removed it to check it out and reinstall. I found this time that it simply could be fully inserted without screwing it in. In and out it now slides. I can't run it doing that.

So it now requires a helicoil, new head or more.

Because I have a replacement engine, with only 6000 miles on it instead of the 76,000 on this one, I am quite certain that replacing the engine is the best move.

I will be calling Chris this week.

2 comments:

  1. Helicols work wonders. I think you should do that and go for 100K. I have a used 250 head with a striped head bolt that can repaired if you want it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I considered that but, because I have a good engine sitting in the garage, that I might as well use that. Then I will go for 150,000 miles. In a hurry.

      Delete