9 replies to this topic

[RupertW]

I am restoring my 1982 mini city, and I need to replace the piston rings. I know it would probably be easier just to put in another engine, but I would like to keep the old engine if possible. How much of a major job is it to change the rings and what exactly is involved? I'm not looking for step by step instructions, but any advise on how long it will realistically take and what problems there could be would be appreciated. The engine is a 998 if it makes any difference.
Thanks in advance.

[bmcecosse]

You need to take the engine out - can be done leaving the box in the car if in a hurry and short of lifting tackle. Then strip and inspect the engine. Would be a shame to not check the crankshaft too - and it will need at least new bearing shells and very possibly a regrind..... Add on a new oil pump and a timing chain and gaskets......the cost rises..........

[RupertW]

Thanks, the engine is almost out anyway so thats not an issue. I had a look at some of the bits you mentioned and although it adds up, its not too bad, considering that the car is having a lot of work on it anyway. The only thing I could not find was how much getting the crank reground would cost. Is my Haynes manual going to be any use? I've always had very mixed results with it.

[bmcecosse]

Haynes is better than nothing......but a REAL Workshop Manual is the way to go. I believe some have it as a PDF - try asking in the wanted section. Crank regrind and new bearings should only be ~£100/150.
Here's a link from an earlier thread...... http://www.mini.or.a.....9;69 full.pdf

Edited by bmcecosse, 16 March 2011 - 10:37 PM.

[tadleysimon]

ive heard you say about lifting the engine and leaving the box in before.

there is no way in hell that is easier than lifting the box with the block.

[bmcecosse]

You think so ? Do you think I just made it up? It's the way I do it (and find it MUCH easier) if all I want is access to the engine. But you do yours whatever way you like ! It will be even easier in a clubby - plenty of room to get around the block there!

[lrostoke]

To be honest I also struggle see how just lifting the block is easier. You've still got to remove pretty much everything you would for lifting the whole unit, so may as well pull the lot out.
Wouldn't you also need to remove the clutch housing to pull the block, thats a fiddle right there whilst in the car. ???

[Stevee]

if i was you

id go buy

Full engine gasket set
big end shells
small end shells
piston rings
timing chain
cam followers
oil pump
water pump
all lock washers

then

id clean everything up, have the cylinders honed and then rebuild it all back up

[RupertW]

Thanks for the replies, it seems doable at not too much of a cost. If I am taking the engine apart, are there any cheap and simple modifications I can to to help increase power a bit without effecting MPG or reliability?

[Cooperman]

Thanks for the replies, it seems doable at not too much of a cost. If I am taking the engine apart, are there any cheap and simple modifications I can to to help increase power a bit without effecting MPG or reliability?

If you increase the power you will use more petrol.
The best things to improve a 998 are a better gas-flowed higher comp ratio head, better cam (say a Kent 266) and an improved inlet and exhaust system. Anything less than that any you'll not notice too much improvement, the key being the opening up of the head tracts and combustion chamber shape.