Ruston & Hornsby 1HR Stationary Engine Starting

Have reassembled a 1955 Ruston 1HR and although I haven't been able to use all genuine parts but it seems to be in working order. However I can't get it to start. Followed the instruction manual for starting with and without firework but when I drop the exhaust lever I can't get it beyond the compression point. Tried bolting down the engine to a couple of sleepers but when the compression point is reached they just lift up no matter how quickly the starting handle is turning. Can anyone help please?

Watch this it may help, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rBYMJyq-54.

Maryalice

That's nice.

Thanks Maryalice, Have seen that - it distresses me how easily it winds up and starts. I tried starting on a wheeled trolley and just ended up with collapsed castors - since replaced. Just can't get it past the compression point when I release the exhaust valve lifter no matter how quickly I turn the starting handle. Perhaps I need a body building course first!

If you attempt to start it, then turn it with the valve lifted; does any vapour come out of the exhaust? if so, that would suggest that the injection was happening too early.

You could also check that it is injecting at the end of the compression stroke; and not at the end of the exhaust stroke (valve overlap).

If the compression ratio is too high; there may a spacer between the head and cylinder missing, or the head gasket may be too thin.

A compression test using a pressure gauge might give you some useful information.

All of the above or you need to eat more Weetabix

Maryalice