Clinton 1200 Engine Stuck

[Riley088 63]

I recently started to work on one of my engines that does not turn. I took off the head and the piston is half way down the cyclinder. Any suggestions on how to free up the piston I would appreciate. I'm a newbie on engines. Thanks in advance. R

[Sparky-(Admin) 23,219]

Maybe dump some oil in the cylinder and let it sit for awhile.

Mike........

[Riley088 63]

Thanks Mike, I did get it freed up both valves are moving but there is still a lot of resistance. Do you think it's a bigger problem then just being stuck or should I let the PB blast continue to soak?

[can whlvr 994]

if theres alot of resistance when the head is off you have more problems than pb will solve,sounds like the rod may be damaged at the crank,i would tear it apart and inspect the rod where it connects to the crank,then check the crank,usually has to be measured with a micrometer,and then check the cylinder and it should be measured too ,i take engines to my local machine shop and they measure stuff for me,then i get them to bore and turn crank if needed,you should also check the main bearings too,and dont forget the valves too,but it sounds like rod to crank issues

[Riley088 63]

Thanks

[stevebo-(Moderator) 8,538]

acetone and tranny fluid mix (50/50) was suggested here before and I have used it with nice results..

[VinsRJ 723]

IMO if the motor was stuck and stiff to rotate now, a full fleld strip and inspection is needed. Not only could the rod be dry (lack of oil) but the 1200 Clinton cam shaft runs on a cam pin which could be dry also. How does the bore look? Any deep scratches or marks? With a tear down, cleaning and re-assembly lube, you may be able to get by with a quick valve job, hone and rings.

[clintonnut 126]

I have seen piston wrist pins freeze to the rod...That causes a lot of resistance. If you take the valve springs off the valves should move very freely with no tight spots. Piston probably has some oxidation on it and wouldn't be surprised if there were bigger problems inside. Don't get discouraged though. Clintons are very simple and last forever with proper inspection and care to the problems.

[Riley088 63]

Thanks guys. The bore looks good. I'm going to take it down and take a good look at it. I have two engines hopefully will be able to get one good one out of the two. Are the parts that have been suggested to replace hard to come by. Thanks again.