Top end rebuilds on high mileage Rv8
Discussion
I'm currently looking for a chim and I've seen a few that have high mileage engine but with no evidense of a top end rebuild, my understanding is when most Rv8 get much above 60K they are start to suffer from cam wear etc.
So my question is two fold is that true and if so how much should be budgeted for a top end rebuild or total engine rebuild ( stand/standard ish spec!!!)
So my question is two fold is that true and if so how much should be budgeted for a top end rebuild or total engine rebuild ( stand/standard ish spec!!!)
The 500 engine seems to suffer from TVR chocolate cam syndrome so most seem to need a cam around 50-80k. Having said that there are still a few going strong on original cam that are coming up to 100k.
I wouldn't worry too much about an engine rebuild but do pay particular attention to the chassis and buy on condition.
I wouldn't worry too much about an engine rebuild but do pay particular attention to the chassis and buy on condition.
My 450 had a 'full engine rebuild' at 80k by supposedly one of the best TVR Specialists/engine builders. At the time, Cam needed doing, plus most of the oil seals leaking and slightly warped head due to Otter switch failing and engine overheating. Thought of getting just top end done but while it was apart thought I would get a full engine rebuild done so I didn't have to worry in the future
just 9000 miles later (4 years) it is having to have a full engine rebuild again as the liners have slipped. At the time of rebuild the garage said they didn't need doing.
Garage that did full engine rebuild said not their problem, only guaranteed for a year. Understand they can't guarantee an engine forever but when spending 000's I would expect an engine to last longer than 9000 miles! Plus thought they may be more helpful rather than washing their hands of it, other than offering to re seat the valves which don't appear to have been done that well (The least of my problems/expense!). Not impressed!
So, I can tell you where I wouldn't recommend getting a rebuild done and also advise considering top hat liners if you are going to the effort.
I am now spending 000's again by another company for top hat liners and engine rebuild (although should be able to use cam and other components).
For every horror story like mine there will be plenty of people who have had no problems on higher mileage cars but good to give you a worst case scenario!
just 9000 miles later (4 years) it is having to have a full engine rebuild again as the liners have slipped. At the time of rebuild the garage said they didn't need doing.
Garage that did full engine rebuild said not their problem, only guaranteed for a year. Understand they can't guarantee an engine forever but when spending 000's I would expect an engine to last longer than 9000 miles! Plus thought they may be more helpful rather than washing their hands of it, other than offering to re seat the valves which don't appear to have been done that well (The least of my problems/expense!). Not impressed!
So, I can tell you where I wouldn't recommend getting a rebuild done and also advise considering top hat liners if you are going to the effort.
I am now spending 000's again by another company for top hat liners and engine rebuild (although should be able to use cam and other components).
For every horror story like mine there will be plenty of people who have had no problems on higher mileage cars but good to give you a worst case scenario!
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