Hitchcocks Forum

Just come across an old Redditch 500 bullet engine that has been stood for many years and is seized. Does anyone know the engine number range of the Redditch 500's after the JS prefix was dropped? Mine is 2118, so I'm guessing its quite late (its the post 55 type0 I'm in the owners club and will contact them but if anyone knows the rough year that would be great. Missed a rideout today in order to get it.

Also any tips on how to un-seize an engine? The heads off but the piston is well and truly solid, currently sat inder a pool of WD40. I'm hoping it might soak down the edges overnight but If it doesn't work what next?

Cheers

Please ignore spelling errors, once you press send its too late.

Chris, throw away the WD40 you are not trying to Diperse Water $0 ways. Simply pour neat diesel into the bore and let it stand. Depending upond the "degree" of seizure the process may take some while so be patient. HTH.

Chris, that number is in the range for a 1959-60 Bighead 500 Bullet. The bottom end is in fact identical to the pre Bighead engine but there may be someone (you perhaps?) who might like to build an "authentic" engine?! As usual, the Machine Dating Officer will be able to tell all. Strangely enough I was talking to him earlier about a possible Continental GT frame I've bought...
REgards, Mark

My Bighead is engine 2233 from May/60 so its slightly earlier than that.Good find! Tom

MadMike, I guess I need to get some diesel. The barrel is quite rusty so I think its seized through standing but I can't be sure. Mark and Tom, interesting to hear it could be a bighead, not that I have a bighead to go on it. I do have an earlier 500 head which will go on eventually. I would be happy to swap for an earlier casing if someone really wants one in that number range. In the meantime I need to get the barrel and piston off, thanks chaps.

Chris, I've replied to your personal email address,
REgards, Mark

hi chris heat frees everything boil some oil pour in engine and on piston worked every time for me

I have used a 50/50 mixture of acetone and ATF as a rust penetrant. I had seen an article where it was found superior to commercial penetrants. It has done the job for me several times.

Thanks Harry and Steve, if the diesel doesn't work I'll try your suggestions.