More updates from the last few weeks
AC compressor is back from the shop, pressure test showed no problem, but the hoses were leaking so those were remade
Noticed a slight exhaust leaks while visually inspecting the engine, which seemed to be a failed gasket.
Removed the manifolds to replace the gaskets, but on one side I've found a small crack.
I've contacted multiple welders, but none of them could guarantee the work of repairing cast iron, but then found some companies doing thermal metal spraying claiming that the process is perfect for these kind of repairs. Went with one, they also did a crack test and found another small, not visible one and repaired it. It was expensive because of the metal powder, but even after resurfacing the price is still a bit below a used part and I know this doesn't have any cracks now. Still needs some grinding work I might do later, but but exhaust manifolds, and turbo to exhaust pipe manifolds are at Zircotec now for ceramic coating.
Also started working on the engine and measured the following
Valve clearances: intake valves are just on the tight end of the spectrum 0.35-0.30, but exhaust valves are all too tight, 0.40-0.35 (factory spec: intake 0.35-0.40, exhaust 0.45-0.50)
Valve aperture: Right block, intake: 0.60, exhaust: 0.65; Left block: intake: 1.05, exhaust: 0.60 (factory spec: intake 0.90-1.00, exhaust 0.65-0.75)
Strangely only the the right chain has slack which should account to this delay, left chain is tight. Is it common that the right side wears much more?
Spent some time this weekend on cleaning the engine before doing the timing work on it.
Before:
After:
Will attack further areas later.
Today I've dropped of the suspension parts at the blaster after making sure everything is properly masked, I learned it's the best if I do as many preparation as possible for a better result. Also visited a company who I finally selected will do the refinishing.