Top Alcohol Motor

Discussion in 'Pit Buzz' started by Rob Hasty, May 23, 2020.

  1. Rob Hasty

    Rob Hasty New Member

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    Does a Top Alcohol motor need to be gone through after each run? If not, how many runs can you get if things stay together?
    Thanks.
     
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  2. Will Hanna

    Will Hanna We put the 'inside' in Top Alcohol
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    At a minimum you need to check the lash. Most teams will check the rod bearings after each pass, primarily to measure the upper rod bearing to check the tuneup. Clutch cars will also check the rear-main each pass since the clutch can be hard on it.

    After an event, I like to check all mains, pull the pistons out, disassemble and inspect. 10-12 runs rotate the intake springs to the exhaust.
     
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  3. Rob Hasty

    Rob Hasty New Member

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    Thanks Will.
     
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  4. MaineAlkyFan

    MaineAlkyFan Active Member

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    Absolute minimum between round servicing includes running the valves, inspecting the springs, draining the oil (dry sump, puke tank) inspecting the Olberg tell tale oil return screen. Depending on the previous run and/or inspection results we look at plugs, drop the pan & check rod bearings and/or mains. We also do leak down if something looks suspect.

    We had a port nozzle blow off at Atco & had to pull it apart to the shortblock & replace a piston assembly & sleeve, but usually the heads & blower stay on for the race. Between races the engine gets a more detailed inspection & we cycle replacement items (rods, springs etc). Yearly it gets a full teardown.

    This is a mid 5.50 car not a 5.40 tune-up. We get 20-40 passes a season depending on schedule.

    Chris Saulnier - Team Tigges
    Mechanic Falls, Maine
     
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