Reply To: JAP 2a flywheel removal

[sidevalve5]

Dear David,

Had another look at the engine yesterday and indeed it does have a head gasket. When I took the head off on Saturday I only took a quick look at it, noting it had numbers stamped on the contact face. It was covered in thick green paint. The numbers were an imprint of those stamped on the cylinder and into the soft head gasket. A closer inspection revealed the head gasket.

I also had a more detailed look at the crankshaft and hole in the flywheel. Both had roughness and have started to flatten it off the shaft. It appears to me corrosion, but not from water. Still think something was on the shaft or in the hole during assembly, maybe an acid type material. The good news is that I can flatten it off so the correct interference is restored. Am going to re-fit and take off until I am satisfied the flywheel will come off as it should.

Your positive reply restored my faith in the VHGMC forum. My understanding of a forum is to discuss ideas in an open, proactive and positive manner, I like to engage in this process. I sometimes feel those who wish to obtain information or expand their knowledge and experiences by posting a subject in the VHGMC forum are often met with apathy and/or negativity. You, the hdtrust and a couple of others are the only exceptions. Facebook groups appear to have younger, more open minded members who are willing to positively engage. This does not bode well for the future of the club.

Best wishes,

Grahame