Author Topic: AAZ lightening (Read 2385 times)

stewardc · « **on:** October 02, 2006, 03:31:56 pm »

I'm planning an AAZ build for my favorite Mk 1 truck this winter. One thing being suggested as part of the blueprinting, ballancing process is lightening of the rotating mass. I'm an old V8 man from the 60s, with lots of driving experience in diesels, but little engine expertise, so I've got a few questions for y'all.
How is this lightening done?
Is it detrimental to engine life in any way?
Is there a downside to this process?

Kudagra · « **Reply #1 on:** October 02, 2006, 03:48:26 pm »

Quote from: stewardc

I'm planning an AAZ build for my favorite Mk 1 truck this winter. One thing being suggested as part of the blueprinting, ballancing process is lightening of the rotating mass. I'm an old V8 man from the 60s, with lots of driving experience in diesels, but little engine expertise, so I've got a few questions for y'all.
How is this lightening done?
Is it detrimental to engine life in any way?
Is there a downside to this process?

Well I plan on doing the same thing. This is what I know.

They basically neutral balance the rotating assembly. It will improve engine life (alot less hermonics). Down side is it isnt free. I believe they lighen the needed parts by taking off material from areas that wont affect stregnth. ie couterweights on the crank.

stewardc · « **Reply #2 on:** October 04, 2006, 09:19:01 pm »

Has no-one else ever done this, or contemplated it?

HarryMann · « **Reply #3 on:** October 05, 2006, 12:36:15 pm »

Its a very different proposition than with petrol engines. Balancing is no problem, lightening, particularly the flywheel and rotating parts should be done with circumspection, as the firing pulses at low rpm much stronger

VentoTD · « **Reply #4 on:** October 09, 2006, 05:52:47 am »

Lightened flywheel works nice. Maybe a little rougher idle (mines at 600rpm). Makes shifting gears much more fun!

wyldman · « **Reply #5 on:** October 11, 2006, 01:16:03 am »

The balancing has very little effect of a diesel,due to the extremely rough power stroke.I have never seen any benefit from balancing a diesel motor.Basic balancing is about all you need.

Lightening the crank is not advised either.We have played with lightening stuff,as well as knife edging,and had little success.if anything,it made it run very rough.

Lightening things like the flywheel,clutch,etc will help with throttle response,but will induce some minor vibration on some motors.It can also make it tricky to get the clutch out just right.