Morris Minor Owners Club

Hi managed to clean up engine good enough to find oil leaks. There is definitely a leak from the head gasket so i am going to nip it up tomorrow as advised and see if that cures it as i never lose any water.This car was maintained by a modern garage for the guy i bought it from and to be honest i wouldn't let them push a pram of mine having seen what they have done.Oil chamber had no spring, air filter had the big rubber ring fitted to inside of air filter.Reused suspension bushes.Could go on for ever. I also have a leak from the timing chain oil seal.Is it best to change the timing chain at the same time. Also which one do i fit the duplex one says something about countersinking some screws but i can't envisage which ones or is it best to stick with the standard ?. Many thanks for all the advice really appreciate it.

Whether you change the timing chain depends on the mileage it has done, and how noisy/worn it is; if you're taking off the cover, try to lift the chain off the sprockets; if it easily lifts by a few mm, then it should be changed. Also check the sprocket teeth while you're at it; if they're obviously worn and very sharp/pointed, then they should be replaced.

A single chain is OK for a standard engine, however, the duplex ones do give that added 'security' factor and should last ages.

I think the countersinking is done to the tensioner screws:

http://mmoc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=41823

You need a complete kit if going 'duplex' - and the two small screws going in to the front main cap need to be removed, the holes (in the front plate) lightly countersunk - and then new Allen head countersunk screws fitted - ENSURING they go at least flush with the surface or slightly below. If just changing the single chain (if that's what's fitted) get a new crank sprocket too - it does twice the work of the cam sprocket. However your 'leak' is likely due to crankcase pressure - you should ensure the breather(s) are clear and connected to the port on the side of the carb. An additional vent from the rocker cover is well worth having...

Many thanks for the help.I have replaced all hoses including the breather going to the air filter.But how do i go about putting an additional breather to the rocker cover ? The engine has done 870000 and it only has a little rattle from chain but if worn will change it.I'm going to check the head is torqued up correctly just incase its had a head gasket fitted at the modern garage and then not checked after a few miles .Thanks again.

Has the engine really done 870,000 miles? If so, that's pretty impressive!!!

You can get earlier rocker covers with the vent tube, but really shouldn't be necessary - just make sure your existing breather setup is in good condition. Maybe swill out the oil trap canister and oil filler cap gauze with petrol, as they can gunk up over time.

Yea sorry that would be impressive its done 87000. Tried the head bolts but they are torqued up right. Will change head gasket at the end of the week and order replacement timing chain kit. Thanks.

I seriously recommend the earlier rocker cover with breather.... But it's up to you! http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vintage-Morri ... 2ed7d898b9

Hi thanks for rocker cover link that is the same as the one i have fitted.Going to do head gasket on thursday and clean all the breathers out and see what happens thanks.