Alusil or Nikasil???
 

Well, it's time to start asking questions about the next winter project...rebuild.

Is there any way to tell if I have Alusil or Nikasil cylinders while the engine is intact in the car? I hear it's a crapshoot on the 78 SC as to which I have.

If they're Nikasil, I'll likely keep them. If they're Alusil, I have to start looking around for some 3.2 P & C's. May as well upgrade if I have to spend the money.

Thanks!
Pat

As I understand it, it depended on which were pulled off the shelf at the factory.

The Alusils look different (they're duller), have K oem stamps. Have to be into the motor to see them.

I would inspect the Alusils, they may be in spec. Depending on what you want to do with the car. If in spec, I would clean/rering and proceed with confidence.

Regards,

Bernard:
Thanks. That's what I was afraid of. What's the K...Kolbenschmidt casting mark? Assuming Kolbenschmidt made the Alusil, and Mahle makes Nikasil.
Pat

Yes, that is the way I have seen it. I have both, Nikies, in my 3.2, and Alusils on a shelf. Once I port the heads and flow them I may consider selling my 3.2 Alusils and the pistons. They've been checked by machine and are within spec. I need new 7.5 100mm.

Projects sound like a good way to spend this winter :).

Pat

If you get this close to them check with a magnet (nikasil is slightly magnetic) AFAIK Kob made nikasil as well

HTH Neven