Ok i have to start reasembling the A12 soon :)
I got a few questions that need awnsering here goes..

1. What colour code (if any) is the original of the block ?
2. Heart shaped cylinder heads - higher compression ? if i do a compression check what sort of psi should it be reading ? if they are stock a12 pistons
3. Whats the best way to decarbonize a cylinder head ?
4. Condsidering that the engine is completey apart what things are to be looked at or taken greater care on when reasembling ?
5. Gasket kits for these engines ? expensive ?
6. Polishing the cylinders ? good idea ? bad idea ? pros and cons ?

thanks

Thats what my cylinder head looks like exactly the same

Quote:While the engine is running, spray a fine mist of water into the carburetor.

For the other questions, I highly recommend checking out a standard maintainence manual like Chiltons (or Gregory's?)

Well considering as the engine is apart id rather get it done before i chuck it on ;)

I personally wouldn't bother with de-carbonizing the head. The pic shows minimal deposits.

From your pic, the #4 cylinder looked like it was burning well (tan color). #1 looks like poor combustion (black color). Is it oily or carbon-like? If the ignition wasn't working well on #1 it can cause this black carbon.

> 6. Polishing the cylinders ? good idea ? bad idea ? pros and cons ?

You mean polishing the intake and exhaust ports? It's not a bad idea. If it is a race engine, go for it. For a street engine, one or two HP doesn't really matter too much, or does it? You'd get more bang by:

- using an oval-port head
- or, use this head, but port-match the manifolds to it. And use round-port inlet manifold if you aren't already