Javelin PB Engine Repair - 2

[Mike Allfrey]

Further to the head gasket concern, another problem has arisen.

While generating initial oil pressure, engine turning on starter motor with sparking plugs removed, oil flow at the oil pressure gauge port was soon achieved. After that, the valve rocker covers were removed to check if any 'mayonnaise' was being evicted at cylinders 1 and 3, when to my dismay I noted two oil jets each side, with hearty flow rate, directly at the inner vertical face of the rocker cover - or in this case, straight out in a graceful arc to the workshop floor.

Investigation has revealed that the new (Chinese) spring washers had a gap, when the nut was fully tightened, of 0.025". These washers have been replaced with what I call small outside diameter close-tolerance 3/8" plain washers. These have been installed, after washing all parts concerned with Loctite Primer, and then with Loctite 518 sealant applied to, a) seal the washers and stud thread; and b) secure the nut to hold it in place without a spring washer.

Here in Melbourne, Australia, the late George Gilmore coined the saying - "A good Jowett squirts its oil 30 feet!"

Well, this PB probably could have achieved about a third of that, with consummate ease.

Has any one come across this problem? I feel that the two drain ports would have trouble draining the leaked oil.

Mike A.

[Mike Allfrey]

Silly Fool, Me!

The spare parts catalogue shows there should be a special thick washer (collar), Part No. 52163. All engines I have been involved with have had a spring washer at this location.

Added to that, I have no such collars in my collection of bits and pieces, which is strange.

I will get a quantity machined, bagged and labelled for future use, and install four in my Jupiter's engine which is currently fitted with spring washers.

Can anyone advise how thick the collar should be?

Thanks,

Mike A.

[Keith Clements]

I have never used or seen a spring washer there. Always a plain thick washer.

[Mike Allfrey]

Thanks Keith,

Must be an Australian thing, who knows what has gone on earlier in a Jowett's life. The strange thing is that I do not have any of those thick washers here. At present, I assume the thickness would be two plain washers and maybe a bit more, to keep the nut away from the moving rockers. I have checked the room between the pedestal securing nut and the inside face of the valve rocker cover, plenty of room so thickness is not critical.

Incidentally, Item 240 in my Spare Parts Catalogue PDF should have the 'cross' to identify 'Not Illustrated'. Now corrected in my Word version.

Mike A.

[Keith Clements]

20180105_181632.jpg

The washers for rocker shaft pillars. Just sorted from parts from half a dozen engines.

[Mike Allfrey]

Thanks Keith,

I will get some collars machined when I am allowed to drive again. Licence authority demands I wear 'driving glasses' so, because of holiday season, I have to wait for quite a while!

The PB engine seems to be running OK at last. However there is no rest for the Jowett enthusiast, The very corroded water pump has started to leak. A Drummond Special has been ordered to replace the old pump.

All the best for 2018 up there,

Mike A.

[Drummond Black]

Hi Mike, Pump prepared, successfully tested, packaged and ready for transportation. Just waiting for delivery information from Aus.

Regards
Drummond

[Mike Allfrey]

Thanks Drummond,

I understand the details are on their way to you.

I would order a Jupiter pump from you, but I have modified mine to mount on the timing cover with four-stud mounting flanges c/w an 'O' ring and alternator adjuster strap support. Could change my mind though.

The PB is running again, with three brass screws holding in the thermostat! It is that corroded.

All the best,

Mike A.

[Keith Clements]

Should not be a problem Mike. You should be able to refit the mod to the new pump.