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Author Topic: ET1 saga  (Read 278 times)

rodnoc

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ET1 saga
« on: November 15, 2019, 03:17:43 pm »
In another post I mentioned that the ignition failed on my silver ET1.  A local gent with a spare OEM ignition package saved me, so now it sparks.  This ET1 shipped with the pulley and lanyard which seemed unusual until I realized it was a monster to hand start.  That may be the reason for the included accessory.  The new ignition did not improve starting even after opening the plug’s gap slightly for a brighter spark, so I removed the head to investigate. Carbon trails showed that the head gasket and both valves were leaking.  Lapping the valves and a light smear of Permatex non-hardening gasket sealer greatly improved compression, but it still required a good spin with the lanyard to start.  The valve-rocker clearance affects when the exhaust valve opens and how long it stays open in the rotational cycle.  So, I started tweaking the clearance and found that .031” allowed it to hand start with one or two flips.  Joy!  Also, I’ve tried Coleman stove fuel mixed with WD40, Coleman with synthetic 2-stroke oil, and 87 octane gasoline mixed with synthetic 2-stroke oil and the Coleman/WD40 blend seems to be the best for hand-starting the engine.

Update:
After a long run it is now weeping water from the base of the cylinder.  Another challenge.  The upside, it still runs.  Anyone else experience this?

RedRyder

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Re: ET1 saga
« Reply #1 on: November 15, 2019, 08:39:12 pm »
I recommend against WD-40 in your fuel. It is not a good lubricant.
A synthetic 2 cycle oil or Marvel Mystery Oil is a better choice. I prefer the Mystery oil. 
15 to 1 is a good ratio. For fuel I use Coleman or Crown camping fuel (white gas- naphtha). I also use pure fuels like ethanol free fuels sold for yard tools and I like 100 octane Low Lead aircraft fuel. It vaporizes nicely and lasts for years on the shelf. I would not put any regular car gasoline in any of my engines. It is nasty in many ways. It has a multitude of poisons designed to be pushed through a catalytic converter at 1400-1800 degrees. Your ET1 won't get much over 110 degrees and won't need water for cooling unless you make it work hard for an extended period. It also has ethanol which will help your fuel destroy most any fuel system you leave it in.


If your ET1 has 2 piston rings, I suggest removing the lower one. Your engine will run cooler and use less fuel.


Most of all...... have fun...!!!


Gil