Early Spitfire 1300 engine

[brett84]

Hey Guys,
First time in here so be easy on me I'm always in the Chimaera forum normally

My Dads got a MK1 Spitfire and the bottom end is quite noisy. It's his birthday next week so I'm going to try and sort it. I've been looking online and can see a few places doing the rebuilt kits for about £400. We both like taking on projects so that side of it's not an issue. There is a recon engine on eBay for about the same price but then shipping.
But just looking for options really, does anyone know where I could get a decent bottom end of even whole engine if needs be. He does less than 1000 miles a year so the rebuild seems unjustified if I can source something second hand.
Thanks in advance

[tr7v8]

Confused an early Spit would be an 1147cc one not 1300? Quick way to check inlet on an 1147cc is twin ports, the 1300cc one is 4.

[brett84]

Oh thank you, I'll double check but i've said it's a 1300 with SU's, maybe it's been swapped over?

If I can't find a second hand one and want to get it rebuilt who would people recommend please? The people/tuners I've used all just work with V8s

Thanks

Brett

[Spitfire2]

If you just want to refresh the bottom end you could get a reconditioned crankshaft and matching bearing shells for about £500 (probably - I did such a job recently on a 1500). The crank in the 1200 is rarer and probably a bit more. But your dad's could be re ground - probably.

[brett84]

Do you know or could have a guess at the cost of grinding the crank?
I'll have a ring around tomorrow but just wondering for some figures in my head at the moment

[spitfire4v8]

Rare cars the early spitfires now. Mine is a 1963 .. wonder how many spitfire 4s are left ?

[//j17]

I'd probably start by pulling the engine out and taking a look at the bottom end (it can be done with the engine in but not massive fun).

If the crank journals are still round you may find a set of new big end bearings, new thrust washers, front sealing block gaskets and wedges, and a sump gasket are all you need. £50-ish.