Posted by engine house on March 13, 1998 at 15:32:45:
In Reply to: Re: Re: Re: Re: Loud ticking in Ford 8N engine posted by another mike on March 13, 1998 at 15:03:00:
: In our area we have a major natainal engine rebuildier. When they surface a block they will take the same amout off each piston so the piston wont hit the head. I don't think I would try to machine the head for piston clearence.
: As for using two head gaskets the option is yours. We would not use two head gaskets on any engine but the 8n. My father, who is still active in the business has worked on these tractors since the late 40's and we have used 2 head gaskets on the 8n and 9n tractors numerous times without any of the aforementioned problems. You really dont have anything to loose but your time and 2 headgaskets if it doesn't work for you. If the heads shot its shot anyway.
: : If your father-in-law replaced the sleeves in the engine, try to find out how easily they installed. We have seen it more than once that a person rebuilding one of these engines just slipped the sleeve into the bore with litlle resistance. The consequence is that the sleeve will move up and down with the piston causing a heck of a knock. If allowed to continue the sleeve will eventually break up and end up in the oil pan.
: : : : If he had the head planed it then becomes necessary to install two head gaskets to keep the pistons from hitting the head.
: : : : This 8n should have adjustable tappets. remove one of the side covers behind the exhaust manifold and look at the lifters. If you see a small bolt head proturding from them, then they are adjustable. You need a special wrench to hold the lifter while you adjust the bolt.
: : : : I am at a loss as to what caps you are refering to on the tappets since the tappet (if non adjustable) or the screw head (on adjustable tappets) operates directly on the valve
: : : : I hope this helps you find your problem, but do not allow the knock to continue or it certainly will cost you more money than fixing the problem now.
: : : I have worked on many engines(thats my living)
: : : NEVER, under any conditions, use 2 head gaskets. You will get away with it for awhile, but it will be back to haunt you later with a worped head and blown head gasket!!
: : If the piston protrudes from the block because it's been decked, can the head be fly cut to provide clearance rather than slapping on two gaskets? Or would you recommend custom pistons with a shorter deck height? Thanks, Me
You are entitled to your oppinion, but it is a fact that you don't use 2 head gaskets!!!!! Bad bussiness.