I got a good deal on a 97 850 turbo wagon, but the motor is shot. Guy before me said one cylinder is shot (no comp), others are a little low. I'm going to start opening the engine soon (need to put on parking brake pads first)

The engine blows blue smoke at idle and on throttle (dipstick too). Looks like a cho choo train.

Car has rebuilt turbo, new timing belt. 175k on motor.

This is my first engine rebuild.

Couple questions:

1. Manual says I need to take off right tire, take off timing belt. Can I leave belt on or just take off tensioner?

2. Depending on condition of bores, is it possible just to change the rings and adjust them to tolerances without boring and new pistons?

3. I was planning on replacing all the gaskets (saw set for 100), rings, rod bearings, water pump, possibly wrist pins. Does this sound o.k. or are there any must replace/service items?

4. If boring necessary, possible to do it with engine in car? I would clean it best I could.

Thanks for the help,
Tom

 

Do a compression test and leak down test to check the condition of your eng. You might only need to have a valve job or head gasket. If that is the case you can leave eng in car. All the rest, ring's ect it is far easyer to have eng out of car. I have not heard of anyone boring clynders with eng in car. First you need to get busy and start searching the site and read read read about your eng and repairs others have done. People are here to help, but read and become knowledgeable about what you are under taking.