Sleeving, Part III

After our previous failed attempt, we were determined to make it work this time. We bolted the crankcase cover on to provide more structural support for the block and heated it to 250 F. With the sleeve in the dry ice again, we set up a smaller hydraulic press with a more controlled pressing capability than the hand press. To our surprise, the sleeve actually slipped right into the cylinder without pressing. Luckily the relief chamfers lined up with the connecting rod path and that was it, the sleeve was in the cylinder. As they always say, third time's a charm.
Once the sleeve was in, we drilled and tapped holes to match the bolt pattern of the Honda OHC head. Dan pressed the lower timing gear on the crankshaft and a timing shaft extension on the camshaft. With the timing chain tensioner in place, we were one step closer to getting the engine running. Next on the list: intake and exhaust systems.

Unmodified 3.5HP Briggs and Stratton block

Modified B&S block with cast iron sleeve

Sleeve with silicon putty on the piston to check for valve clearance

Honda head mounted to B&S block with external timing gears and chain tensioner