My rebuild...

[steve11]

Received a letter from TVR concerning my rebuild.

"The engine was returned to the factory as a detonation was found....."

:confused:

Can someone explain?

[slinky]

I presume they're referring to pre-detonation, ie. detonation before the spark occurs..

Not a very desireable thing in an engine, as it can produce huge amounts of damage!

hth,

slinky
587racing.com

[steve11]

Done a quick search on Google, am I right in thinking this is caused by incorrect or faulty spark plugs causing overheating or is it a bit more complicated than that?

[slinky]

I'd say it's affected by more factors than that, although I would have thought that spark plugs could well be a factor!

slinky
587racing.com

[nelly1]

Detonation is the term for fuel igniting in the cylinder before the 'proper' time - ie. when the spark event occurs.

This can be refered to as 'pinking'. The effect is usually caused by incorrect ignition timing or by a physical problem such as a worn inlet valve or by a 'hotspot' caused by a carbon build-up around the inlet port. I believe it can also be caused by a weak or non-existent spark - the petrol builds up in the affected cylinder and can ignite by a number of sources.

The end result of said problem can melt inlet valves, damage piston crowns / bores or damage the clinder head.

Hope this helps.

BTW - bad luck and hope it's fixed for you soon!

[Mustang Baz]

Good post and topical!

I just got a TVR letter (at my request) clarifying my rebuild as well which stated "valve seats were found to be burnt out. The engine was therefore stripped and rebuilt with a reworked cylinder head including cams, valves and followers and also new con rods, crank bearings and piston rings were fitted".

I have regrettably only a small idea as to what this means, so would appreciate any input as to whether this represents a "standard" rebuild procedure?

[dvs_dave]

Sounds like a very comprehensive rebuild to me. From what you've said the only origial parts remaining are the crankshaft, pistons and engine block.

IMHO it would have been easier and quicker for them to just stick a new/re-conditioned engine in.

[steve11]

Work carried out on mine:

New Block, Crank, Rods, Cylinder head, Cams, Follows and Valves

Do I get a prize for the most buggered engine

[dvs_dave]

I think the term "detonation" is factory speak for " your engine has completely exploded".

How can they say it's a rebuild when they've replaced virtually every component of the engine. Sounds a bit like the 1000 year old axe...

[JR]

steve11 said:

Work carried out on mine: New Block, Crank, Rods, Cylinder head, Cams, Follows and Valves Do I get a prize for the most buggered engine

So they transferred your pistons to a new engine?