I have a spare (just in case) VHPD engine stored away. I have been thinking about a rebuild project for interest and fun to have a perfect spare. I would do it with a full record, a bit like JonnyFox but less OCD. To my knowledge the engine is fine as it is. I would get it balanced, scrubbed up, bearings checked, new seals and gaskets, verniers and maybe a light porting, clean up. I would leave the cam belt until it is fitted (if ever).
Is this a job for the amateur or is it best to wait and send it to an expert when it’s needed? It looks pretty simple but if you need lots of specials tool it can quickly not be worth it.
Hi Keith,
sorry, but I can’t help you with your question as I have never restored a VHPD engine.
But I would be very interested to see a nicely documented VHPD restoration here on exiges.com.
So please go ahead and ‘How Hard Can It Be?’
If it ain’t broke …
Could become very costly and one step nearer the grave (larger bores ,smaller journals etc)
Porting has its issues too , weakens the structure and in my experience ended up with worse than stock results . Albeit not on a VHPD .
Unmolested vhpd can only go up in value , wheras reconditioned vhpd somehow loses its appeal ?
But would you fit one that has not been rebuilt, it could be an expensive installation to find it’s not fit? II would only do what was needed, no temptation for more power etc. Balance appears to be an issue with some engines as does restricted cooling due to casting flash.
My plan so far is that it would be a parts donor if I ever need them. My in-car engine is so strong and miles done so low that as a spares donor may never be used, that’s what has tempted me to do a reference build.