Practically Classics Forum

I've read in the mag that Neil has been reunited with the Dolomite 1850HL that he and Sam used (and abused) on various driving events. The word from Dolomite land is that it is in need of an engine replacement. Neil, if you're reading this can you tell us more? If it is something that's going to be in the next edition of the mag then it's fair enough if you don't want to say ahead of time. Please pick our collective brains. I know my way round the 1850 (and Dolomites in general) so engine replacement might not be necessary. I know that removing the head can be a pig of a job (I dread they day I have to do it on mine).

Edit: I should have the back issues featuring this car. I'll have to dig them out.

Things you should never, ever write in a public web forum, number 91074:

Toledo Man wrote:I dread the day I have to do it on mine

As long as you go around checking the torque settings at every major service, then there shouldn't be a problem since loosening and replacing the head studs in order will keep them free. The only problems I've had with slant HGF have been caused by people not understanding the importance of the correct sequence. Some assume that they're the same as on engines with parallel fastenings and that causes the head to be pulled tight before it's in the correct position for putting the studs into their holes, so then the head shuffles about on the block in use and wears away at the fire rings in the HG, pressurising the coolant jacket in the process.


Somewhere, in my garage, I still have the Saab dealer workshop special tool for getting heads off slants when the studs are corroded to the head. I really ought to start renting that out!

I had 3 of the things in my tr7 before i saw the light and fitted a v8, one was an expensive rebuilt lump that only lasted 50,000 before the head gasket started leaking despite them being checked annualy. I really cant think of any thing good about it they were rough , low on power and not particularly economical.

John, the engine is still as good as ever (probably the best part of the car at the moment!). I'm not too worried because I have a "Plan B" in the shape of a spare engine that somebody has somewhere in Leeds. My main worry is a rotten subframe mount which is affecting the handling at the front end.

Neil, if there's anything that you're allowed to tell us about JLO's progress please let us know.

Absolutely disgraceful behaviour from Sam.....tut! tut!.Its no wonder she needs a new engine


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0OvC8ee2IY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XIAE86_ngw