Engine Checklist

[Ennva]

Having taken ownership of my fathers plus2 a lot of fettling is required. Does anybody have a simple check list to go through. The engine was fully rebuilt 24 years ago (i will post by who later) during the build Christopher Neals suggested it was a pace car? as we have Lotus stamped powermax rebore pistons fitted, I recall lots of pain getting piston rings. The car has done circa 3000 miles from then so all should be okay?
Simple things like grade and oil manufacturer would be a great place to start.
many thanks

[Galwaylotus]

Design clearances during the Twin Cam era were much looser than today's engine specs. A good 20W-50 classic oil is probably best. Some worry about low ZDDP levels in modern oil in relation to flat tappets so you may want to do a search on this Forum as there was at least one thread on the subject previously.

[mbell]

What you need to do depends how long since it last run, I'd consider:
- Turn it over by hand (5/8 socket on crank pull bolt and turn the engine clockwise), ensure it will turn a complete cycle
- Check Timing chain tension
- Check the valve timing
- Make sure the oil pump is primed (slacken the oil pressure sender and turn the engine by hand, any oil coming out?)
- Compression test the engine (watch to see if it builds oil pressure)
- Consider replacing ignition system, plug, rotor, cap and leads
- Consider rebuilding the carbs
- Check the static timing
- New fuel
- Check for fuel leaks