[C320-list] one bad cylinder

[Warren Updike]

Ken, you don't say how many hours are on your Perkins.  I'd like to know
that.
I don't consider myself an engine expert so take this for what it's worth.
Let's presume the problem is with the valve train and not rings or other.
Once you have the head off, would it not be prudent to do a complete valve
job and have the injectors checked?  In doing that, I believe it is
recommended to have the head milled to original tolerances.  Replacing the
head requires the proper gasket and torqueing to specs.  
I wonder what would be the cost of this job vs removal and overhaul vs new
engine?  Anyone been through this?
Our Perkins is 18 yrs old, has 1,800+ hrs, burns little oil, exhaust is
clear, starts easily.  In short, I consider us lucky.  Yet, I've heard that
with proper care these engines can go thousands of hours without trouble.

Warren & Pattie Updike
1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"



-----Original Message-----
From: Jane & Ken [mailto:obuoy4848 at sbcglobal.net] 
Sent: Thursday, May 10, 2012 9:52 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] one bad cylinder

All,  I have a 1995 with the perkins (Detroit) diesel, three cylinder M-30. 
One cylinder has no compression--number three--The other two cylinders work
fine and will rev to 4000 rpm in neutral.  In gear only rev to 2000 rpm and
reach only 3/4 hull speed.
  The question is,  has anyone pulled the head while the engine is still in
the boat?  Seems as though there is sufficient room to do that however the
marine "worker bee" say that they won't attempt it.  Any advice is welcome. 
The engine is 'new' with only an original 262 hours.  THANKS,  Ken  #219 
OBUOY