VICKERS MK6B's resto

[David Dunlop]

Difficult decision, Colin, but it makes sense. The 216 is a far more available engine and would offer the ability to get both tanks running with matched power trains. You are then, as you mentioned, still able to revisit the Meadows with a lot less pressure, to see how best to bring it back to life.

Have you looked into ultrasonic cleaning to free up the seized cam? One usually thinks of the wee cabinets sitting on the counter in the jewellery shop used to clean Granny’s rings, but I do believe there are much larger industrial applications now available in the automotive and marine sectors that might be worth researching as time permits.

David

[colin jones]

Rich, yes it certainly be a slower project and it has to be saved.
David, it was a bit of a no brainer really. I haven't lost the Meadows, it's just on the shelf and the tanks will not be held up from running. Just the thought of breaking something in the engine from being in a hurry is scary Having the 216 will have no impact on the visual aspect of the tanks and probably not too much difference in the sound. (not that I have ever heard a Meadows).
I was very pleasantly surprised at the similarities of both engines in height and in length so I would assume that the stroke would be very similar as well. I will probably have to modify the sump on the 216 as I'm pretty sure it will be too deep so I will make a square (ish) type one to make sure I still get the volume of oil needed. Very similar to the Meadows sump.

[motto (RIP)]

Colin
You are no doubt aware that the Chev 216 sump contains the oil distribution arrangement for lubricating the big ends. (Probably not a problem for a man with your capability so therefore not mentioned by you.)
Except for the fact that you already have an engine in your possession a better choice would be a post '54 235 cu in Chev with full pressure lubrication commonly referred to in Oz as the 'Blue Flame' engine. All the advantages of the 216 remain.

David

[Ryan]

Just a couple of random pics, unusual views. Top of turret and open engine covers.

[Ryan]

Destroyed Vickers tanks but showing open covers.

[colin jones]

Hi David, I was doing an inspection yesterday of another sump I have to determine if I have enough space to make a larger squat type reservoir under the oil system and I am pretty sure I do so the existing system will be able to remain. As far as a blue flame engine in concerned, as much as more HP would be nice, I don't think it is of major importance. As long as the specifications are as close to the original as I can get it and it works well, I will be a happy vegemite. I have inspected the clutch set up and know that I need to change the spigot/pilot bearing and either find a clutch plate with the correct spline centre, get one made or change the centre myself. Just as a general observation I don't foresee any big problems in marrying the two together.
I will post photos of my progress as usual and hopefully should not take too long. I still have to get some drive parts made that is way beyond my abilities.


Ryan, thanks for the photos. I feel for the poor buggers inside those tanks. Not much protection I'm afraid. There's a drive sprocket and hub in the bottom photo I would love to have.

[colin jones]

I am doing a dry run of the trans and final drive to make sure everything fits as it should, turns as it should and to get a final distance to the engine spigot/pilot bearing as I need to make an adapter plate between the trans and the bell housing.