I totally understand the importance of oil changes and think the previous owner was psychotic for not changing it. However I can't help what is already done. I can only try to salvage the old girl at this point. It still runs very strong and the motor suprisingly runs good. Except for the oil light. The rear decompression fitting is leaking slightly and it pours out of the bottom. I think it is the front crank seal but I'm not sure. It is running down onto the rubber sleeve that connects the rear drive to the motor. I am planning on taking the front blade off this summer and investigate where it is coming from.
Would any of yall suggest running an engine cleaner such as risoline in the motor prior to changing the oil. I plan on changing it several times back to back to try to get the gunk out. I am concerned that cleaning it too much could lead to big problems such as bigger leaks and loss of compression. Any guidance to cleaning this sludge bucket of a 2 cylinder beast?
Thanks!
topgun,
I applaud your efforts to bring the old girl to life. Unfortunately, due to the previous owners ignorance, I believe you will get to know the internals of this poorly neglected engine very well.
To be honest that's not a bad thing, it really isn't. Don't be afraid of what lies ahead if you tackle the engine. Any lack of rebuild experience will be made up for by the great members of this forum.
As for stuff like this....
DO NOT USE IT!
Any of the internal engine cleaners have absolutely no lubricating properties. Imagine metal to metal with only kerosene in between the two parts. Worse things will actually happen.
If you are looking for a short term, but still costly one. I suggest repeated oil and filter changes. As many as you can afford every week. But then again the problem will still be with the areas of the engine that are having troubles. Like glazed bearing surfaces and clogged channels.
The internal engine cleaner might get some of the glazing off but at the cost of metal to metal destruction. It really will not do anything for the sludge build up over years of abuse and running at high rpm and temperature.
By the time you are done trying different remedies you could have had that engine out, torn down and put back together.
As far as the engine running good right now. Don't let that trick you too much. Remember that diesels are bullet proof hard running brave little soldiers. They will take all kind of hits until they just can not take one more step. These troopers will die for you.
Just think about the pride of ownership after an engine tear down.
And not to mention you wont be staying up at night worrying about what's going on in there.
Sorry if I'm telling you what you don't want to hear, I really am.
I just think you should bite the bullet, clear an area in the garage and get the wrenches out. You will be so much happier.
Scott
