Viewing a V8

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pat180269

Active Member
Hi all, not posted on here for a while. However I am going to view a 50K mile 72 series 2 4 speed manual V8 next week. I have a 2200TC already so I know the p6 quite well, but not the V8 engine or manual box in v8 application.

What should I be looking in terms of making sure the engine is a good ‘un. What are good hot/cold oil pressures? Are there any noises I should listen out for specific to this engine? Can I assess condition from oil colour etc ? Common problems to look out for.

I know the 4 speed manual is weak but the one in this car is supposed to be good. What should I do to test this?

Thanks in advance

Pat
 
I thought you owned a Series 1 V8 already.

pat180269 said:
Are there any noises I should listen out for specific to this engine? Can I assess condition from oil colour etc ? Common problems to look out for.

What should I be looking in terms of making sure the engine is a good ‘un. What are good hot/cold oil pressures?
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Oil pressure should be 30-40psi @ 2400rpm HOT. Remember the guage in the car isn't a precision instrument, it's only a guide. Remove the oil filler cap and see how black it is inside, remove the dipstick and look at the oil on it. Listen for tappet noise and other noises. Check for oil leaks. See what it runs/drives like.


pat180269 said:
I know the 4 speed manual is weak but the one in this car is supposed to be good. What should I do to test this?
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Don't test it too hard, because if it isn't broken already, it soon will be. Listen for whines and knocks, make sure it goes into all the gears, and make sure it doesn't jump out of reverse in particular. Some parts are NLA, (the laygear) and others (the rear bearing) are very expensive.
 
No i have never had or even driven a v8 p6

Am i right in thinking a ‘72 car will have the rear rope crank seal ? Can leaks here affect the clutch ? Are there any other common leaks on the engine to look out for ?

Are the gearboxes really that bad ? What are the options to replace ?
 
pat180269 said:
No i have never had or even driven a v8 p6
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My bad, I must be mixing you up with someone else.


pat180269 said:
Am i right in thinking a ‘72 car will have the rear rope crank seal ? Can leaks here affect the clutch ? Are there any other common leaks on the engine to look out for ?
Click to expand...

It should be a rear rope seal, but the engine might have been changed so you would have to check the engine number suffix letter. Oil can get on the clutch if the rear main is leaking, but you should have clutch judder or slip if it has. Most oil leaks can be cured by making sure the engine breather system is correctly fitted and routed, and is all clear, flame traps and engine breather filter in particular.


pat180269 said:
Are the gearboxes really that bad ? What are the options to replace ?
Click to expand...

Yes they really are that bad, they are made from lead and plasticine. A light foot on the throttle is the order of the day. The LT77 or R380 make a nice five speed conversion, more durable and with an overdriven fifth gear. Win win.
 
I’ve owned my car two years and driven nearly 10.000 miles in it and not had a single problem with the gearbox. I would always have a manual over an automatic so don’t let all these scare stories put you off.
 
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