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Rebuilding an engine #1633955
16/07/2019 13:37
16/07/2019 13:37
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 302
Ireland
S
sjbrophy Offline OP
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Posts: 302
Ireland
I posted in the 'parts wanted' thread but I guess it doesn't allow for discussion so better to post here...

Basically my coupe is smoking a lot when cold and showing low oil pressure when hot (just below 1 bar at hot idle). Mechanic had diagnosed worn piston rings, and probably valve stem seals too.

At that point it becomes an engine out job, and the sense is to do a proper rebuild.

Countrycruising was his usual helpful self in the other thread, and gave a source for forged pistons, but my car is and will remain standard, so I think that normal cast pistons should do the job?

I have a friend with some mechanical knowledge who has removed and refitted the engine before who will do that part with me to keep the costs down; then I have a proper engine builder lined up to do the engine work - located in Ireland I can't just hand it over to CC or similar, unfortunately.

Anyway, I'd love a little help and advice on what to do (resist the urge to go mad, seriously!) in terms of parts.

I know I need:

Pistons & Rings
Valve stem seals
belts kit
hoses and CHOD
oil & water pump.

What else? Someone has told me to get the cylinders bored, and maybe the crank re-ground (can that be done on these?)

I am happy with the clutch and turbo - they both have <10k miles on them. Manifold is perfect, oil cooler pipes recently refreshed, forge dump valve, and a few other bits.

Anyone with any advice on sourcing the bits I need would be very gratefully thanked - I don't know do Alternative Autos still do bits? Never got a reply to my emails to them a while back...

Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1633956
16/07/2019 14:10
16/07/2019 14:10
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 16,659
Auld Reekie
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Auld Reekie
Probably better phoning Steve at AA (or Tracey) on 01484 865086


BumbleBee carer smile
Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1633957
16/07/2019 15:17
16/07/2019 15:17
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 399
Uk
M
Makkadiamond Offline
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Uk
Hi

If taking the lump out I would and want to do a proper job
consider also
Crank check
Big end bearings
Little end bearings
Flywheel balance
Balance shaft bearings

Best

Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1633961
16/07/2019 16:58
16/07/2019 16:58
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 17,112
FCSS 01684 593187
Countrycruising Offline
Club Rep Europe, member 914
Countrycruising  Offline
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 17,112
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Originally Posted by sjbrophy
I posted in the 'parts wanted' thread but I guess it doesn't allow for discussion so better to post here...

Basically my coupe is smoking a lot when cold and showing low oil pressure when hot (just below 1 bar at hot idle). Mechanic had diagnosed worn piston rings, and probably valve stem seals too.

At that point it becomes an engine out job, and the sense is to do a proper rebuild.

Countrycruising was his usual helpful self in the other thread, and gave a source for forged pistons, but my car is and will remain standard, so I think that normal cast pistons should do the job?

I have a friend with some mechanical knowledge who has removed and refitted the engine before who will do that part with me to keep the costs down; then I have a proper engine builder lined up to do the engine work - located in Ireland I can't just hand it over to CC or similar, unfortunately.

Anyway, I'd love a little help and advice on what to do (resist the urge to go mad, seriously!) in terms of parts.

I know I need:

Pistons & Rings
Valve stem seals
belts kit
hoses and CHOD
oil & water pump.

What else? Someone has told me to get the cylinders bored, and maybe the crank re-ground (can that be done on these?)

I am happy with the clutch and turbo - they both have <10k miles on them. Manifold is perfect, oil cooler pipes recently refreshed, forge dump valve, and a few other bits.

Anyone with any advice on sourcing the bits I need would be very gratefully thanked - I don't know do Alternative Autos still do bits? Never got a reply to my emails to them a while back...



Answering from the bottom of your post AA are still about and trading, sometimes you have to wait, or if I can help I could always supply your parts list but I'll need to know bore and journal sizes before ordering rings and shells.
The cranks can be reground, after it would need to be hardened and lapped, tbh if the engine has a healthy oil pressure it'll just need an inspection for size and new bearings, no point incurring extra costs when not needed.
Clutch wise I'd would check the movement of the thrust race bearing, if it spins freely renew it.
Coolant hose kit I always promote Viper, their kits are the best along with their new stainless clips, buying anything else would be waste of money imo.
Oil pumps aren't cheap to buy new, and again if the pressure was healthy why change it.
If I can help further give me a call or email.

Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1633985
17/07/2019 09:14
17/07/2019 09:14
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 302
Ireland
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sjbrophy Offline OP
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Joined: Jan 2008
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Thanks all so far - is this the right hose kit? Does it include CHOD?
https://www.viperperformance.co.uk/silicone-hose-kits_9907_fiat-silicone-hose-kits.html

Any tips on where to get pistons?

Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1633987
17/07/2019 10:15
17/07/2019 10:15
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 1,298
Pontefract, West Yorkshire
andyps Offline
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Pontefract, West Yorkshire
That's the right kit for the hoses - set 074 includes the CHOD.


Andy

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Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1633992
17/07/2019 11:50
17/07/2019 11:50
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 17,112
FCSS 01684 593187
Countrycruising Offline
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Originally Posted by sjbrophy
Thanks all so far - is this the right hose kit? Does it include CHOD?
https://www.viperperformance.co.uk/silicone-hose-kits_9907_fiat-silicone-hose-kits.html

Any tips on where to get pistons?


If you're looking for standard pistons that might prove difficult, for rings there are plenty of options.

Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1633999
17/07/2019 16:50
17/07/2019 16:50
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 302
Ireland
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sjbrophy Offline OP
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sjbrophy  Offline OP
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Ireland
uh-oh - forged pistons are fairly expensive...

Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1634006
17/07/2019 19:13
17/07/2019 19:13
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 8,384
Lightwater, Surrey
DaveG Offline
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Lightwater, Surrey
New aftermarket pistons seem to start around the £100 each level, so £500 for a set whereas a set of forged pistons starts around £750 with uprated rods £300 ish.

Since your mate has taken the engine out before I guess it's a no brainer, but pistons/rings could be replaced in situ if the bore wear is OK. But probably best to remove the complete engine and measure / overhaul once on a stand.

Low oil pressure can result from bearing wear, oil pump wear or even low viscosity due to petrol in the oil from overfuelling causing bore wash leading to increased bore/ring wear...

Once you add up the cost, compare that with a replacement used engine, or there's still a new engine on eBay for a shade under £6k shocked


1996 Portofino 20vt & 2000 Pearl White Plus
1985½ & 2016 2017 Fiat 124 Spider + XF Sportbrake
Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1634037
18/07/2019 15:16
18/07/2019 15:16
Joined: Jan 2008
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Ireland
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sjbrophy Offline OP
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ThNks Dave - any idea where I can get those aftermarket pistons?

I hear you on cost, but I don’t see the value in a used engine unless it’s been rebuilt anyway...

Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1634039
18/07/2019 15:46
18/07/2019 15:46
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 8,384
Lightwater, Surrey
DaveG Offline
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Lightwater, Surrey
Oh sorry, they are listed on Autodoc and all the various European equivalent country sites, but none showing as in stock frown That's why people use forged pistons, since they are at least available.

I have seen a new block & piston set at Bielstein in Germany, I have bought stuff from them before but the block is very heavy and it says for delivery only in Germany, unless you can maybe arrange something yourself, 900€ But again it says "notify me when in stock"


1996 Portofino 20vt & 2000 Pearl White Plus
1985½ & 2016 2017 Fiat 124 Spider + XF Sportbrake
Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1634092
19/07/2019 16:27
19/07/2019 16:27
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 33,520
Berlin
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Berlin
Is there a need for replacement pistons if they're not showing wear and you're not doing more than honing the bores? The rings, obviously, but pulling the pistons and rings if they don't need it, why bother?

You'd do the big ends, of course, while it's out, and grind/harden/lap the crank.

Neil


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Don't get no respect! Coupe Fiat 1994-2000 - an owner's guide <-- clicky!
Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: barnacle] #1634102
19/07/2019 20:20
19/07/2019 20:20
Joined: Sep 2006
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Countrycruising Offline
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Originally Posted by barnacle
Is there a need for replacement pistons if they're not showing wear and you're not doing more than honing the bores? The rings, obviously, but pulling the pistons and rings if they don't need it, why bother?

You'd do the big ends, of course, while it's out, and grind/harden/lap the crank.

Neil


Yes agree, the pistons should be fine so renew the rings only.

Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1634104
20/07/2019 06:16
20/07/2019 06:16
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 33,520
Berlin
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Berlin
And conrods. Forgot them, but the same applies, unless there's wear at the little ends.

Edited to add: when Joe and I rebuilt my 16NA engine at 160k miles, we took one look at the cylinder pressures - better than 220psi across the board - and didn't even think about pulling the pistons or pulling the head.

Last edited by barnacle; 20/07/2019 06:18.

[Linked Image]
Don't get no respect! Coupe Fiat 1994-2000 - an owner's guide <-- clicky!
Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1636955
20/11/2019 14:53
20/11/2019 14:53
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 302
Ireland
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sjbrophy Offline OP
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Ireland
Hi

Update from the mechanic (https://www.johnburkemotors.ie/) - a great guy who builds a lot of race engines.

Good news - the bottom end and pistons were OK.
Bad news - the top end is not so good, and the cams are beyond saving.

The list of parts needed from John is:
-Big ends std
https://www.buycarparts.co.uk/fiat/coupe-fa-175/7760/10625/big-end-bearings?sort_supplier%5B0%5D=485
£40 delivered

-Mains ends std
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ENGINE-MAIN-SHELL-BEARINGS-FIAT-COUPE-2-0-20V-TURBO-MVParts-/262559604652
£46

-Piston rings std
£ 14,29
https://www.buycarparts.co.uk/fiat/coupe-fa-175/7760/10631/piston-ring-set

-Thrust washers std
£ 3,26
https://www.autodoc.co.uk/glyco/101266

-Full gasket set
£ 172,11
https://www.autodoc.co.uk/car-parts/gasket-cylinder-head-10325/fiat/coupe/coupe-fa-175/7760-2-0-20v-turbo?categories%5B0%5D=560

-Cams x2
Inlet cam:
https://www.autodoc.co.uk/ajusa/7189668
£130

-Lifters

-Cam variator
-Oil pump
-Timing belt kit.
-Timing belt crank pulley
-Water pump
-Oil filter
-Balance belt chain kit
-Spark plugs
-Cam position sensor
-Valve collets x4
-Cylinder head overhaul

That's only the engine - he's flagged some evidence of overheating so I will need water pump, hoses, thermostat and possibly rad too.

So can any of you help me to source these or point to where the problems are likely to arise? I'm doing some googling - belts, rings, etc seem to be available. I'll update this post with my own research of costs as I go, in case it might help others, but input is welcome!

Last edited by sjbrophy; 20/11/2019 15:40.
Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1639302
24/02/2020 12:22
24/02/2020 12:22
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Posts: 302
Ireland
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sjbrophy Offline OP
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I decided to buy an engine from a breakers, along with a bunch of rebuild parts - gaskets, and the like, as well as pumps, hoses, radiator, clutch... etc.

Good news: The engine is in and running well, with good pressure and very little smoke.

Bad news: I'm not getting any boost - more or less none via the boost gauge.

The Turbo was boosting OK before the change - I think it's fairly unlikely that it's died in the transition. I wonder if there is a problem with the plumbing or if the boost controller is getting the wrong message or something.

Does anyone have any ideas? I have "the book" but it doesn't have any detail on the plumbing of the Turbo - are there any diagrams floating around out there?

Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1639303
24/02/2020 12:40
24/02/2020 12:40
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 8,384
Lightwater, Surrey
DaveG Offline
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Have a look at the workshop manual for the fuel system on the 20vt, it has a schematic for the plumbing including the Pierburg (EBC) valve where you may have mixed up the connections. Ah but wait, you are not a member, so you will have to find an online version (or join up!)


1996 Portofino 20vt & 2000 Pearl White Plus
1985½ & 2016 2017 Fiat 124 Spider + XF Sportbrake
Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1639304
24/02/2020 13:17
24/02/2020 13:17
Joined: Sep 2006
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Countrycruising Offline
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Originally Posted by sjbrophy
I decided to buy an engine from a breakers, along with a bunch of rebuild parts - gaskets, and the like, as well as pumps, hoses, radiator, clutch... etc.

Good news: The engine is in and running well, with good pressure and very little smoke.

Bad news: I'm not getting any boost - more or less none via the boost gauge.

The Turbo was boosting OK before the change - I think it's fairly unlikely that it's died in the transition. I wonder if there is a problem with the plumbing or if the boost controller is getting the wrong message or something.

Does anyone have any ideas? I have "the book" but it doesn't have any detail on the plumbing of the Turbo - are there any diagrams floating around out there?


A quick test is loop the vacuum line from the actuator over the the snail as that will give you base boost, if you still don't have anything either the turbine is seized or the waste gate penny valve is open.

Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1639313
24/02/2020 14:27
24/02/2020 14:27
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 302
Ireland
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sjbrophy Offline OP
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sjbrophy  Offline OP
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Ireland
Thanks! I have the workshop manual - will get into that and do what CC suggests smile

Re: Rebuilding an engine [Re: sjbrophy] #1639704
08/03/2020 13:51
08/03/2020 13:51
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sjbrophy Offline OP
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Ireland
Ok so plumbing looks good. Compression excellent but still having smoke at startup, and there is no boost. waste gate is closed, dump valve ok... not sure what else it could be except a knackered turbo.

Anything else? It’s obviously possible that smoke and boost are separate problems. The turbine seemed to spin freely when the engine was out...


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