Hello, I bought my 1985 tractor about 15 years ago, and shortly after the head gasket went, and I found that the oil control rings were shot at the same time. The cylinders were pristine as were the big end bearings, I don't think it has run many hours. I think the oil rings were worn because the previous owner had removed both air filters. I replaced the rings and refitted the head with new gaskets but it has gone again. When I changed the rings I forgot to deglaze the bores, it smokes like a freight train on start up and low revs but when working at medium or high revs it does not smoke. I am old and forgetful and have forgotten what the torque settings for the head bolts should be. I never had the head skimmed but I would have thought a heavy solid cast iron head would be unlikely to warp, is that right? It will be a big problem for me to remove the sump and pistons, I have just had major back surgery, is there any chance I could deglaze the bores with the pistons installed but at bottom position, I have looked at some deglazing tools and it looks possible, obviously cleaning the cylinders after would be important. Thanks, Michael
You could but more than likely you’re going to have to replace rings again. I would wait until you have the physical ability to pull the engine and put it on a stand and do it halfway right. That way if it needs anything else, you can do it then. I had major back surgery in 2020 and am looking at getting it all redone as I have a loose screw and now damage above my T12 L2 hardware and cage. Don’t overdo it while healing or you will end up with a failed surgery. Good luck on the recovery.
My Dad always used to say I have a screw loose, maybe he knew something. I have not done a great deal of work with the tractor, I only have about 12 acres and I don't farm it, it just a beautiful private park with trees, fields and ponds with a wandering stream. I mow the grass maybe twice a year, rotavate a small veg patch and use the tractor to split firewood. I fitted new air filters and I think that there might be a chance that the oil control rings should be good. The engine oil gets changed and still looks quite clean. But maybe I have done too much already only 2 months after the surgery. I also had back surgery in 2020, but different, still in the lumbar region. I have to see the surgeon on Friday and I think he may get mad at me, I will have to see. But things just need doing.
Well, glad I’m not the only one that does stupid stuff, like riding an HD with a back brace on 7 days after a laminectamy and rods, screws and a cage. Now looking at getting it all re-done and going 2 to 3 levels up. This ain’t no lumbar stuff, this is almost between your shoulder blades. I’m dumb, you can be dummer. lol Just take it easy. Please.