We checked into our hotel and awaited the arrival of the spares from the UK. They arrived late last night and we hoped we could breath life back into Colin.
I spent 4 hours today working with the mechanics trying to get the engine back to life.
The initial checks revealed that all the cylinders were holding pressure and remarkably none of the valves were smashed. We re-assembled the top-end using the new cams and buckets and checked for clearance.... We were having to use the original shims and these needed cutting back. This was done using a rotary drill and a cutting disk.... Welcome to Egypt!
Having reduced the thickness by 40 thou, we tried again; still no clearance....
We removed the shims..... no clearance! A closer examination revealed that the head had been modded (which we knew) but the standard cam we'd brought from the UK head the valves open.... In short, we were finished! As mentioned on the following forums, The Fat Lady had just sung!
We've now arranged recovery from Luxor to the exit port at Hurghada, so we'll be travelling with Colin, but he'll be on a flat bed.
I honestly believe that we were in a strong postion to finish 2nd but possibly 1st. The engine failing cost us the rally and I am hoping that Vulcan Engineering will be as disappointed with their engines performance as me..... especially with the spend involved... I'll keep you all updated and let you know what happentced to the engine etc...
Once again Ces and I would like to thank you all for your support.
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Really sorry to hear about the recent trials & disappointments. I had my fingers crossed that you'd do well. It was looking really promising - welcome to the world of motor sport :-)
ReplyDeleteWishing you a safe trip home.
A real shame indeed....the engine issue will be interesting to say the least!!
ReplyDeleteFor the cam shaft to fail begs a huge question
Safe trip back you two :-)