QuestionI have a 1988 Simplicity Tractor that I use daily for my lawn care service and was wondering if it needs to be replaced. Lately it has had a knocking coming from the engine and also on start up after sitting overnite has been burning oil but then goes away. I took off the head after letting it sit overnite and there was a puddle of oil on the cylinder wall past the cylinder. Does it need new piston rings? If so is it worth fixing?
Answerhello
most engines will only have a service life of 10 years after that repairs etc sky rocket
given age of 12 years and your mention of a knock from engine and also the puddle of oil on piston top after sitting overnight and blowing blue/ white smoke and burning of oil.
this sounds like you have a worn out / or excessive big end to con-rod clearance
the puddle of oil could be a breather but more likly the worn rings with burning of oil
and breather cannot handle excessive oil comming past.
the reality is given costs of rings, piston - resizing cylinder to o/size
and new con rod , gaskets, seals - carb rebuild kit etc it would be more cost efficient
to replace engine from experience repair often adds up to more than 60 % of new replacement price and also with a new engine you get a warrenty
this is my advise but the decision is yours
hope this helps cheers paul
