The Curate's Egg Heart Operation

[Henry Harris]

To share with everyone, my 450SE has been rebuilt. At every turn, we found issues. I had never touched the engine until last year. The noises with which I was uncomfortable turned out to be a broken big-end bearing.

That was not the end of it. Many other components were worn or inappropriate. More later when I get a complete list.

Suffice it to say, the engine has now been rebuilt and reinstalled. A picture is below. It does not sound like a Wedge. Because of all the work including comprehensive engine balance, it is as smooth as a baby's bottom. I will post a YouTube clip with sound.

[mrzigazaga]

Looking good Henry...You must be really chuffed getting it back...Also just in time for the Fest...

[adam quantrill]

Nice one! Perhaps loosen a couple of manifold bolts for a more authentic sound? ;^) Won't do any damage...

Glad to hear it's sorted out at long last - and with a proper Rover V8.

[mrzigazaga]

I like the shiny pulley's...Oh and the stainless coolant hose joiners..Looks nice and tidy...The washer bottle would look nice either carbon wrapped or hydro-graphics.

Interesting info on the oil pump...look forward to reading more on that...

[Henry Harris]

Yes, the washer bottle and the brake fluid reservoir look yuck. Any ideas on the latter?

[mrzigazaga]

Hi Henry..
There are loads of options...You could get the washer bottle customised with a pattern of your choice..

Wicked coatings
http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&...

And for the reservoir you could get a cap cover from these people..

Mirage
http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&...

[Henry Harris]

Video clip - my first ever attempt:

First Steps after Operation

[V8 Fettler]

Looks good with the bonnet off! Less risk of heat soak when parked after a long run as well.

[adam quantrill]

I hope that was after the 10 minutes at 2000rpm to run the cam in!

[mrzigazaga]

...Sounds great...I bet it goes like stink!!.....

[carob]

That is superb Henry. We done to you.

Rob

[Trickie Dickie]

Sounds very nice Henry and I love the twin exhausts

Cheers
Trickie

[Henry Harris]

I've got it back and it's raring to go.

I must run it in for 500 miles though.

60psi oil pressure through an in-line gauge at 2000 rpm. So much for Rover V8s.

More later.

[Jack Valiant]

Hi Henry ... wow 60 psi that is high for a RV8 hope all the seals are good! Would have liked to see it but time has caught us out - enjoy!

Chris

[smash]

Congrats - I say congrats but it isn't like you won it or anything I bet the wallet is still feeling it, lol!

Get those 500 miles on and then hit the dyno - bet it's awesome!

[Henry Harris]

While I am running in the rebuilt engine, I will be happy to provide details, including non-statnard items fitted. Send me a mail.

So far, it is very smooth, quick enough, handles well with a mimim of bump steer. I am keeping it under half-thottle and under 4,000 rpm. I intend to put it on the roller road in the future.

[JVaughan]

That sounds fantastic. great effort too.

[Henry Harris]

My last post on this topic.

For those who have not seen the engine in the flesh, you are welcome to peruse this album - My 450SE

[mrzigazaga]

Hi Henry...I really love those rocker covers, They definitely look custom made...Ziga