I was somewhat anxious and a little excited to start assembly of the engine today. I took the better part of the morning cleaning, arranging, and even went so far as to create a playlist for the occasion. Jazz instrumentals seem appropriate.
I started assembly, carefully following the guidance of The Maestro books and video. Unfortunately, I didn’t make it very far. Two of the connecting rods (1 and 4) do not want to seat completely on the journal. My initial impression is that the rod is too wide to fit between the counterweights.
I tested the connecting rod caps from the two troublemakers on all journals. They don’t want to go onto any of the journals completely, even with moderate coaxing. My cheap digital calipers seems to confirm that the two offenders are at least a few hundredths wider, but I don’t get a consistent measurement at all points.
The other connecting rod caps (2 and 3) seem happy on any journal, and will rotate easily.
The rods are all the same part number. R 616.103.101.01, which I understand to be 912. The crank is marked 616.102.015.00 and 616.102.015.01 on the counterweights, which I also understand to be 912.
I’m probably doing something stupid, but what is beyond me at this point. If I don’t get an answer from The 356 Registry, then it’s probably back to the machinist to seek an explanation.
Disappointing start to the build…
