Just to add to my junk, I've just bought a Triumph Stag for two hundred quid. It's in the condition you'd expect for that sort of money, but does have a genuine Stag engine in it. One that's pretty dead, admittedly, but it's complete, fairly clean and not seized. I managed to get it running for a few seconds on what sounded like one bank of cylinders, then spent a couple of hours checking the carbs and electrics (it has a complicated looking Newtronic electronic ignition fitted, but working OK). It didn't improve, so I started wondering if the timing chain had jumped a cog or two on one side. No clues when I had a look under the rocker covers. The timing chains didn't look particularly loose. The cams were rather worn and pitted around some of the lobes, but I can't see why that would stop it running. There are no nasty noises when turning the engine over, though it seems to turn a little too easily as if compression's down, which would back up my thoughts about a timing chain problem. I reckon the engine will fetch a reasonable sum on eBay, even in its current state, but it'd be nice if I could get it running without spending anything on it. Anyone know how to check the cam's timing on one of these? And also, how to get an idea whether the valves have clobbered the pistons? Or any other thoughts at all about it?
- posted
16 years ago