[TailTwister]

I figured that today was the day to re-check the valve clearances in my Saito 72, in preparation for the EF Egde to arrive. I pulled the valve covers and sprayed a shot of carb cleaner over the rocker arms to get ready for the work. I began by turning the crank to release pressure on both valves whan the screw/pin that holds the exhaust rocker arm in fell out on the counter. The threaded hole where it is supposed to screw into was wallowed out and it was held in by the goo and the valve cover. Horizon says the fix requires a head, as the rocker arm actually mounts to part of the head, which (of course) is also the cylinder bore. The part is about $75. Then, do I have to break in the engine again? I guess I'm worried about a new cylinder and an old piston having poor fit. Any reason to worry about that?

Also, I think I'm gonna try (once) to JB Weld the pin in place at where the threads used to be. Is that a REAL BAD idea, or does anyone think it's OK?

And what the hell caused this?

HELP!!!!!

 

[Shortman]

Was it running fine before you took it apart? Old saying, if it ain't broke, don't fix it 8) . I just went per the manual's instructions and actually adjusted the valve clearence right out of the box as it is not adjusted properly everytime. The second Saito 72 I got is adjusted good. After my 1 hour break in, about 6 tanks of fuel I checked the clearance and tightened it, then I leave it alone.

I have no idea why the motor would fall apart in your hands like that though

 

[TailTwister]

After a full 24 hours for the JB Weld to dry, I reset the clearances, and decided to go fly. Today I flew it four times, kinda' low number as I had a student to instruct, and it is fine. Looking at the valve covers, the pin simply can't come out far enough for the part to fail, as the covers are so tight. The JB Weld will give me a bit of peace of mind, and hope fully keep it still so that it will not strip further.