Victork2 and his ultimate folly

Aginor · January 20, 2025, 9:21am

Same here.

Yes, Diesel isn’t really that easily flammable, but… I think I still couldn’t smoke there.

smokinhole · January 20, 2025, 6:00pm

I have no idea what that is. But it sounds a little like the HP engine-driven pump on a Lycoming. That pump is actuated by a tightly sprung lever that the engine trips on each turn at the accessory section. I’ve replaced mine twice on the Pitts. It’s worse than a magneto. In fact, it’s most difficult replacement on the motor that doesn’t require the case to be split. I don’t envy you the job. (But I do envy you the likely ample workroom that must be a feature of wrench-turning on that thing.)

Victork2 · January 25, 2025, 5:15pm

Successful afternoons spannering. The little fella and me had a masterstroke, he struggles with spanners and ratchets because hes not very strong yet. But with my new electric ratchet, he’s away! Its strong enough to do most things he’s capable of helping with but not nasty enough to break his arm like my bigger impact guns. It snatches just enough that he has to hold it but if he loosens his grip it switches off as the trigger is massive and easy for him. Brilliant discovery.

We changed all the destroyed rubber standoff blocks for the hood. Easy little job. He did very well indeed.

Next i changed the fuel pump, which whilst it was a bit fiddly and annoying in places, on the whole was actually pretty straightforward (everyone online says this job is awful) it was irritating, tight and i was like a contortionist at time. How the hell a 6 foot 6 250lb us marine could do that in the desert I’ll never know. Respect.

The fuel pump is driven by pushrod inside the engine block that is held back by the spring on the pump. Soon as you take the pump away. The bloody pushrod slides down and you can’t get it out the way without taking the plate off. I didnt know this and didnt have a gasket. So i had to make one out of a cereal box i pinched out of the kitchen (I’ll blame the kids)

But its all done, no more diesel leaking everywhere and I’m sure it actually sounds a bit better as well.

A good day. I also did 13 tyres this morning as well so I’m knackered now and having a beer.

Victork2 · February 1, 2025, 5:00pm

First show of the year tomorrow! Been a hectic day of tyre fitting and trying to get the humvee ready for battle!

I bought a light aircraft portable intercom and some cheap headsets (david clarke for 45 quid ) and me and the boy tested it on the way to get some fuel. Works a treat for a jerry rigged effort!