Was given an engine

[Tom and Maria]

I was given an engine last week (by someone who didn't even know it was my birthday). I've stripped it down today. Not very good at posting pictures, so it's a verbal summary, apologies.

Pistons are standard, not over sized. Almost no compression when turned over by hand, quite a noticeable ridge at the top of the bore. I'm guessing a rebore and +15 pistons?

Crank is standard, not reground. It has a visible line line where the bearing groove has sat, which cannot be felt. I was hoping to get away with a new set of standard bearings. Any thoughts?

Otherwise, it'll be a new oil pump, valve grind and a lick of nice green paint.

Tom

[MarkyB]

No danger of getting a compression reading by hand, even less so on a well worn engine!
I'd look for oversize pistons for a good price then get the bores done to match, they will be the most expensive element.
You could go the whole hog and get the screaming bargain Roy recommends for a reground crank and shells, can't remember who from Birmingham possibly.
Then you have a fully rebuilt lump, not a classic rescue job

[bmcecosse]

We NEED pictures - it's very very easy......... There is no 15 overbore - it will need to be 20 thou over. Even the main bearings on the crank have no 'groove' you can feel?? Are you sure????? And you don't say if it is an 803 or a 948 or a 1098 or even a 1275!! timing chain and sprockets are also likely to be past their best - and inspect the cam followers.......