From: Barry Lovelock
Date: 15 Apr 2002
Time: 01:38:10
Remote Name: 213.123.41.186
I think I started the whole 515 saga off a couple of years ago when I found out Grant Cowie had used it for the Ulster I bought from him and doubtless on the "Duck" too. Yes, it is expensive, no, I didn't know it was so difficult to get things apart as I haven't tried yet, but, it works!!
Modern engines are really sealed for life and not intended to be dismantled; most go the the scrapyard as-built. On the face of it, I see no real reason why with modern oils etc, an A7 shouldn't last a long time, if not as long and if it doesn't leak oil for that time surely we're all better off for it?
Whether or not oil baffles work, or are needed, is maybe not as important as being able to assemble an engine without them and everything else flapping around and ruining any chance of an oil-tight joint by attempting to use the stupid base gasket! Being a purist means oil leaks and 515 means no base gasket and no leaks - exactly as Austin would have intended if it were available then, I'm sure.
The only disadvantage in not using a base gasket is the compression heights have to be watched, so do be careful. The only gasket necessary on the whole car is probably the head gasket......
Ian will love this!