So, it seems that the loctite fix didn't work out that well in the long
term. It worked better initially, but the mid-range power is dropping
and the backfiring is back.
I could just wait for it to fail and get a replacement engine, but some
time ago Don (mikkels@ihug.co.nz) posted the following:
Anyone got any further opinion on this?Later in the week I was at Taylor's engine
reconditioners in Grafton and noticed they had a silver MX
in the workshop with the front of the motor "undressed".
Being nosey I looked at the crank and yes it was flogged a
little worse than Karl's. Paul from Taylors showed me how
they repair these. They weld up the front of the crank,
engine in the car then grind back and cut a new keyway - all
in the car. This is achieved with a jig and tools they have
made themselves. Price about $300 for the welding and
machining.
Even better - anyone know of anyone in the Wellington area who could do
this? Otherwise I might get it done when I drive up to Auckland for the
Big Day Out...
Thomas.