So I posted some info on another SD that I bought. It had a dead cylinder 3. Thanks to all who posted info on getting the TC guide rail pin out. I removed the head today and found in pristine shape. This engine has no timing chain stretch-maybe 1 degree. I found the #3 piston broken at the top and you can see about 1 inch of the upper compression ring land circumference exposed, but the ring piece is gone. The bore is smeared with aluminum in spots. It is hard to tell if there are scratches at this point. I will pull the piston next to see the full extent of the damage. So, what causes this kind of damage? Also, is there anyone who has had good luck replacing only the affected piston after cleaning up the bore? An engine builder friend of mine told me he takes muriatic acid to remove the aluminum smear. What are your suggestions. Pics to come.

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Thanks,
Mark in NC

"Spark plugs?...We don't need no stinking spark plugs!"
1985 300SD "Der Silberne Schlitten" 420,000 mi


Wish these were diesel:
2003 Ford Club Wagon 130,000 mi