Well! I actually did it. Nerve whacking but accomplished what I set out to do so far...

I took the B18 out and now it is on the stand.

I had posted a message asking for advice some time ago asking about rebuilding or getting a new engine. Many helpful and assuring responses boosted my confidence to go for rebuilding it.

Here is what I have done so far...

*Head is off...valves look good...at least I think so- no burnt marks or nicks around the valve edges. I am considering sending it to a head shop to install hardened seats. Worth it?

QUESTION: Ok to keep the same valves with new seats?

*Took piston #4 out. the top ring was broken into half (compression was tested 135). I measured the cylinder all around and up/down. The off-roundness seem not to be so bad, ranging from .003 to .005.

QUESTION: What is the maximum clearance tolerance between the piston and wall if I am to just do cylinder honing and snapping in new rings around the piston? The piston grooves looked pretty good.

Another question...what is the recommended clearance between the journals and rod bearings for normal street use? I have Plastigage, but before I start using it, I need to understand what measurements show.


I have yet to take off the camshaft, but I could see that the cam lobe for exhaust #2 port is almost worn round. And the fiber cam gear is slightly loose around its hub. New cam and gear along with new lifters are definitely in order.

Thanks!

-DS