947 Threw a Rod

[Sanddune12]

First of all, thanks to all who post and respond! This is my first post but have spent HOURS reading and have learned a ton!! My 2002 Sportster LE blew a piston and threw a rod thru the block on vacation in MI a couple weeks ago. Going back up in 3 weeks and would love to have my doo attached to my Hummer on the way up. Not sure what is best way to proceed with replacement. I am not a mechanic but have some decent skills and plan to replace myself. Took engine out yesterday. Can I purchase of complete motor anywhere? It looks like thru SBT I can get the block, according to other posts they seem to be reliable. I don't have enough time for SES rebuild. Shreds of metal/aluminum went thru carb and exhaust, would any of my motor be salvageable? Just really hoping for some advice on what is the best and most economical way to get my doo back on the water. What else should I think about repairing/replacing as long as I have it apart. Have already replaced impeller and wear ring. Thanks!

 

[Dr Honda]

Most likely, the engine can be welded up, and fixed.

I would recommend contacting SBT first, and find out what the extra cost will be, since a hole isn't part of a normal rebuild.

As far as the metal shards... just clean out the exhaust, and carbs before putting it back together.

 

[Sanddune12]

Thanks, I will give them a shout on Monday. Another quick question: I had some problems with cavitation in the past. Replaced impeller and wear ring but that did not fix the problem. Read a thread on diagnosing cavitation so tried some marine grease between carbon seal and stainless ring and this seemed to fix the problem. But it also said, possibly by you, that doing this wears down the carbon seal quicker. Should I just go ahead and replace the drive line now? The seal looks in good shape right now.

 

[Dr Honda]

Yes... most greases will get into the carbon, and make it soft. The grease is a great band-aid for a warn seal that needs to be replaced anyway.


I would recommend replacing the carbon seal and boot while the engine is out.

 

[Sanddune12]

Got it...will do! Thanks!!!

 

[Sanddune12]

I was going thru SBT for a rebuild but they informed me that my case and cylinder were not re-buildable so was going to have to find salvage ones to send to them. In the process of getting salvage parts from a guy SBT recommended I found an already rebuilt 951 and he was not requesting anything from my motor sent to him. I made the purchase and will install myself when I get it. I am going to replace the carbon seal and boot, should I just get a new driveline from SBT that has the c-clip, o-rings and stainless ring as well? I read somewhere that the o-rings could become stiff and crusty??? My bellow looks good but should I replace that as well since everything is easy to access right now? Thanks!