The generator saga droned on again today. Charles installed a new injector with no result and then pulled the head and cylinder. There was plenty of fuel in the cylinder, so the only thing that could really be preventing ignition at this point, is insufficient compression. We found no obvious issues with the valves, rings or piston, so I am left scratching my head. I suppose, and Charles agrees, that it is possible to have a number of small leakages (both valves and the rings) that collectively add up to enough of a leak, but I'd feel a lot more optimistic if we had found a broken ring, burnt valve or other obvious issue. Charles took the parts back to the shop to clean and measure them and should be back tomorrow afternoon to put the thing back together.
Unfortunately he also discovered that all four motor mounts have rotted away. This explains why the generator seemed to buck around more than I thought it should during start-up and was apparently caused by being immersed in the oil that accumulated in the foam insulation that lines the generator's enclosure.
So far it appears this little repair will cost me at least $3K. I'm a little discouraged at this point, but am not ready to give up just yet. The trip planned with my Dad is on hold for now, but I'm sure we can still enjoy a trip next week.
I'm now going to go drown my sorrows in rice and beans.
The good news is that you're using the boat, and not repairing her so she can sit in a slip for months on end. Consider this part of the shakedown. Best of luck.
ReplyDeleteI hope all parts arrived as expected today. I know this delay and expense must be incredibly frustrating, but at least you'll have lots of spare parts for the future!
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