Re: Am i being ripped off
Maty..... You state that the mechanic at the dealership "thinks" that a certain problem is caused by some component. He, apparently also suggested that the thermostats be removed from the engine.<br /><br />The above line of thought can lead you into bankruptcy. When having a engine checked out and repaired, if the problem isn't solved, returning the engine to the dealership to have the same problem resolved is called in the trade, a "ComeBack" in which the dealership absorbs the cost of labor.... in effect and in actuality the customer is not charged for the mechanics oversights/mistakes! However, one can not expect the dealership to absorb the cost of any extra parts that are needed, "unless" the mechanic's oversight resulted in the destruction of those parts.<br /><br />Note that the absence of thermostats will result in scored pistons and cylinder walls.<br /><br />Resurfacing of the cylinder heads is a touchy subject. Frankly I do not advise that route. If a cylinder head is warped, replace it. Removing too much head surface will result in too much compression, which in turn will lead to pre-ignition that will melt a piston (it happens).<br /><br />Any problem should be met head on with first a compression check..... 100+ psi and even on all cyls. Then, with the s/plugs removed, check the spark which should jump a 7/16" gap with a strong blue lightning like flame on all cylinders.<br /><br />If the above two tests check out okay, the most likely cause of your problem would be either fouled carburetors ( mostly clogged fixed high speed jets within the float bowl), improperly adjusted throttle/carburetor linkage, or a sticking timer base under the flywheel.<br /><br />The fact that the carburetors were cleaned does not mean that they are indeed clean. It is easy for some to overlook manually cleaning the brass fixed high speed jets for some reason.<br /><br />The timer base can be checked by having the engine in forward gear NOT RUNNING (spin the prop while shifting), then slowly have the throttle advanced while watching the timer base assy. The timer base should steadily advance slowly up against the black rubber stop on the spark advance screw. If the timer base sticks, the spark remains retarded. Keep us informed.