Engine: 140 1986cc B20A: - The long and the short of it?

Dylan144GT · Oct 13th, 2008, 07:41

Hello all

Was just on another forum and was reading about a "short" block B20 for sale and I'm just wondering; what is the difference between the long and the short blocks? If there is such a difference? Its not the first time I've read about it and now the curiosity bug has bitten me! So if some one could please squash it I'd be greatful!

Dylan

P. S. Does anyone know whether the camfollowers in the B20/B18 engines were heat treated when they were made?

Clan · Oct 13th, 2008, 08:04

A "short" block is a term used in past years for a new block with crankshaft rods and pistons , ie without the head . Usualy supplied as an exchange engine which would be cheaper than buying a whole engine with head when you dont need the head . Wouldnt it be nice if they did this today ...

The cam followers were certainly hardened especialy on the face which rubs on the camshaft . chill hardening was the process . Yes they could mushroom and be very difficult to remove !

Dylan144GT · Oct 13th, 2008, 08:35

Thanks for clearing that up Clan. Makes sense.

So, regarding the followers... Do you think its possible to "skim" followers to the same size when fitting a new cam? Just wondering if this is a possible option because I know you have to change the followers when changing the cam.

Dylan

Clan · Oct 13th, 2008, 09:10

You would not be able to skim them in a lathe too hard . and grinding would ruin the thin hardened skin , best to fit new ...

Oct 13th, 2008, 07:41	#1
Dylan144GT Member Last Online: May 21st, 2023 08:35 Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Cape Town	The long and the short of it? Hello all Was just on another forum and was reading about a "short" block B20 for sale and I'm just wondering; what is the difference between the long and the short blocks? If there is such a difference? Its not the first time I've read about it and now the curiosity bug has bitten me! So if some one could please squash it I'd be greatful! Dylan P. S. Does anyone know whether the camfollowers in the B20/B18 engines were heat treated when they were made?

Oct 13th, 2008, 08:04	#2
Clan Experienced Member Last Online: Today 14:22 Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: L/H side	A "short" block is a term used in past years for a new block with crankshaft rods and pistons , ie without the head . Usualy supplied as an exchange engine which would be cheaper than buying a whole engine with head when you dont need the head . Wouldnt it be nice if they did this today ... The cam followers were certainly hardened especialy on the face which rubs on the camshaft . chill hardening was the process . Yes they could mushroom and be very difficult to remove ! __________________ My comments are only based on my opinions and vast experience .

Oct 13th, 2008, 09:10	#4
Clan Experienced Member Last Online: Today 14:22 Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: L/H side	You would not be able to skim them in a lathe too hard . and grinding would ruin the thin hardened skin , best to fit new ... __________________ My comments are only based on my opinions and vast experience .

Oct 13th, 2008, 08:35	#3
Dylan144GT Member Last Online: May 21st, 2023 08:35 Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Cape Town	Thanks for clearing that up Clan. Makes sense. So, regarding the followers... Do you think its possible to "skim" followers to the same size when fitting a new cam? Just wondering if this is a possible option because I know you have to change the followers when changing the cam. Dylan

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