Square 4 Tappet Guide Blocks

[Alec.Elliot]

Hi there

I am in the process of re-assembling my 4G engine that has been apart for some time. When I took it apart all of the cam followers were moving freely in their respective tappet guide blocks but now for some reason I have four followers seized (fortunately? in just two of the guide blocks)

I have tried a bit of force and a bit of heat but they are showing no signs of moving. I also had them soaking in some diesel for a while. Still no signs of them behaving themselves.

Dont tell the lady but they are currently stashed in the freezer behind the turkey soup.

Has anyone had this problem and has anyone suggestions on how to proceed?

[roger.fellows]

Have you removed the guide blocks from the cylinder block Alec? Do the followers have a recess which enables the use of the small circlips to aid reassembly?

[john.whiting]

The taste of diesel wont improve the turkey soup.Even old oil wont jam things up,so some moisture must have crept in during storage.Or possibly the tappets have been forced into the guides beyond a wear step,no matter how slight.After removing from the cold,you should heat them up to drive off any condensation that will form on the cold metal.I assume you have removed them from the block,as "her indoors" wouldnt miss spotting a square four block in the freezer.Regards John.

[paul.jameson]

I think heat is the only answer to this one. If they were mine, I would leave them in the top of the lower oven of the AGA for a day or two but if you lack an AGA you are not going to get away with leaving the electric or gas oven on for that length of time. Then I would try to move them, whilst still hot, by using the vice as a press.

If all else fails you are welcome to pop across and try using the AGA here.

[Alec.Elliot]

Hello Gents

Thanks for your assistance on this chaps. Firstly even I wouldnt try to get a Sq4 block complete with followers in Mrs E's freezer. And yes the diesel does add a certain "jeu ne se something" to the turkey soup.

With the cold then heat then diesel I have so far managed to free one pair of followers up and will continue working on the other pair. It will keep me occupied on these cold dark nights. I will keep you posted.