A couple of weeks ago I noticed the exhaust was throwing out a lot of vapour when the engine had warmed up, and after a 10 minute stop I tried to start the engine, but it was hydraulically siezed..... a cylinder full of water methinks!! 120k on the clock, and only changed the cam belt last year!
After a couple of attempts, engine started okay, and was still running as sweet as a nut, although a couple of miles later the 'low coolant level' warning came on. Good job it was just a local journey, so managed to get home and the poor thing hasn't left the driveway since.
In my former years, I carried out full engine overhauls on 'straight 6' BMC 2912cc engines (technology from 40 years ago). I couldn't stomach a garage repair bill of £***** and the car isn't worth it, so have decided to set myself a spring/summer top-end project. I've got quite attached to the old girl, so no rush, no hassle, just take it a step at a time. Here's how far I've got in 2 days.
I've never come across so many pipes, cables, hoses and connectors before, but have to admit I'm still feeling enthusiastic about the project. I've taken plenty of pics, drawn lots of diagrams, and labelled plenty of bits.... most of which I can identify so far
Still not even half way there yet, but next job will be removing the camshafts. Any pointers or advice welcome (or even words of encouragment). A big thank you for the PDF doc by iggy21uk on OOF, outlining the main process of taking the V6 lump apart.... and plenty of pics to help me along the way.
I've since found that the timing cover and backplate come off much easier when the front belt tensioner is removed first!
