I've got a friends Comet in bits (literally, unfortunately). The original reason for opening the timing chest (or Pandora's box as I call it) was to adjust the valve timing, and to find the source of a rattle. The rattle sounded like a kickstart ratchet on the return stroke, but was evident when turning the engine with the ks. The rattle seemed to be emphasised by backlash in the pinions (don't ask why!) but it seemed to come from the Alton (about 4 years / 5000 miles old).
I've never had an Alton, so I don't know how it should be. I've taken it off and given it a quick inspection - everything seems ok, but turning it by hand it's very "notchy". It seems to be due to the poles lining up in the alternator part (I'm not an electrician) and I assume there are more notches per turn than I expected, because the gearbox increases the speed.
Is this to be expected?
Does it smooth out at speed?
Should I panic and send it to an Alton specialist?
Thanks
H
I've never had an Alton, so I don't know how it should be. I've taken it off and given it a quick inspection - everything seems ok, but turning it by hand it's very "notchy". It seems to be due to the poles lining up in the alternator part (I'm not an electrician) and I assume there are more notches per turn than I expected, because the gearbox increases the speed.
Is this to be expected?
Does it smooth out at speed?
Should I panic and send it to an Alton specialist?
Thanks
H