Tips prior to engine removal.

[Slightlyriskyneil]

After a lifetime of dreaming I finally own a Stag (3.0 V8 Manual + O/D) and there’s not a section, panel, part or component that doesn’t need repairing, refurbing, cleaning or painting and I couldn’t be happier. It’s a major restoration and I’m in no hurry. I’m planning to bench the engine at some point in the near future however while it’s still running I plan to give it a good flush through and do a compression test. Can anyone suggest a good solution to run around the innards to de-gunge etc. and should I be doing any other tasks or tests prior to laying the engine up – thank you in advance – Neil

[tvrgeek]

A sea-foam treatment does wonders to clean up stuff. Just good modern detergent oil change for the innards. Once out mist oil into the cylinders to prevent rust, otherwise you will have compression readings matching how far each piston sat in the bore. Letting an engine sit is actually the very worst thing you can do. I thought about getting a big tub and completely immersing it in cheap oil. I know a highly respected engine builder who will not start to do a build before the customers car is sitting ready for it and can be started within weeks.

[Slightlyriskyneil]

Thanks for that. I'm also looking to desluge the waterways / water system as there's probably years of oxidation and krud in there. I'm still looking to find an appropriate flushing solution that won't do more harm than good ... I'll note your comments thanks

[tvrgeek]

THere are many "magic" flush solutions. If I were to use one I think I would then do two flushes with quality premix. I have heard recommendations for Prestone flush, but probably more by brand than by any objective testing. Never seen any objective tests.

[Slightlyriskyneil]

Thank you ... I'll look at Preston and similar