View
The view is just beautiful up here!
Gold
There is a pot of gold there, right? Or perhaps a pot of bitcoins?
Parts
It is a good day when you get a box from Mouser and Digikey.
DC
A surprisingly nice day in D.C.
Block
I made some progress on the engine disassembly. I removed the heads and inspected the pistons and cams, which both looked to be in great condition. It appears there is minor damage to the intake valves on both sides, although I’ll have to remove the valves to be sure.
The pistons are surprisingly clean given the age ( 5 years ) and reasonable high power output/cylinder. I suspect that is due to the combination of high ethanol fuel (mostly E85 and E98), and the presence of water injection.
I have always been a fan of water injection. When I first got this car in late 07 I used a water/methanol mix, but in the last 6 years or so I have stuck to distilled water with a small amount (~15%) methanol to prevent freezing.
Engine
I pulled the engine out, since it was likely to have valve damage. I was surprised to see that one of the engine mounts was ripped as I didn’t notice any extra engine movement.
I scoped the valves and sure enough on both sides there are valves that are cracked/bent. I quickly scoped one of the bores and the piston looks fine, but perhaps the other cylinders have more obvious marks.
I’ll pull the heads off and see what it looks like inside. At a minimum the heads will need to be rebuilt with new valves, and while I’m there I might as well put in a new closed deck block, you know, just in case.
This will also give me a chance to redo the sensor package on this motor. I have some improvements I’d like to incorporate, as well as some better wire harness design.