QuestionI have recently acquired a 1972 Series III Land Rover 88” Petrol Hard Top and as a retirement project I intend to completely strip and fully renovate the vehicle. This will involve amongst other items a new chassis and major renovations to all mechanical assemblies.
Having removed all body panels and replaced/repaired the corrosion to the floor area of the Dashboard Panel assembly, I am now concentrating on the engine. Having completely stripped the engine and decided on a rebore of the cylinders etc. I would be grateful for some advice regarding the cylinder head assembly: -
(i) Is it necessary to fit valve inserts to both inlet and exhaust valves in order to use unleaded fuel?
(ii) The available hand books indicate that the engines were built with either 7:1 or 8:1 compression ratios – how do I determine the compression ration of my particular engine (VIN 90103825A – Engine No. 90125359A)
(iii) If my particular engine is a 7:1 compression ratio, how much material can safely be machine from the cylinder head to increase compression ration to 8:1?
(iv) Is it possible to obtain supplies of the original engine paint? – What is it called? – What is its specification?
Kind Regards
Roger J. Burnett
AnswerWe don't change valve seats when we rebuild these engines most of the time. Show the head to a good machinist and see what he thinks based upon condition.
As to compression ratio and paint - call Les at Rovers North, 802 879 0032. He is very sharp and can help w/ any other parts needs also.
