Re: V12 Engine rebuild advice

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2010/4/12 15:45:53

To many of us 8 hours on the road is a long day, but Steve (Babinsky) is in his shop most every Saturday for guests & customers so you might think about calling and visiting the shop. While no one can provide a cost, I think anyone who has done many of these engines can give you "typical", and they should be able to tell you in detail about the "what ifs", like sleeving if the bores are already out to far, crank turning, cam polishing, and the like. Also ask about what machine work they do in house and what they farm out. You might also ask about their opinions of various sources for parts, especially pistons and insert bearings. Do you want hardened exhaust valve seats installed (highly recommended). Do they recommend planing the manifolds. How do they clean the water jackets, etc. etc.

Also, cosmetics can loom large in a Twelve, manifold porcelaining and what options there are, all that nickel plating to do, do you want the engine accessories done like generator, starter, distributor, carburetor, etc.

Just some thoughts - send me a PM if you want to discuss in more detail.