1946 47 Ariel 500 Engine build Part 1

This is the first in a short series of build videos, where I'm going to build up an ironhead 500 engine for my 1940 W/NG so I can ride around using it as a daily hack and not wear out the original 350 engine. This is a bottom end I bought for parts to exchange for reconditioned parts, but some are usable as they are. I have collected most of the other parts I need and will be filming the build as it goes. First job is to get the big end replaced, and then the assembly will begin from the crank cases upwards.

[@martinwade9421]

Delighted to see that Ariel put a proper bearing to support the timing-side crankshaft, unlike the horrid brass bush that Matchless/ AJS used on their singles.

[@thra5herxb12s]

The earlier models used a bronze bush and the casings look very similar, but a ball race is a much longer lasting prospect and doesn't rely on the condition of the oil for longevity.

[@georgemoskal2098]

Ahh, the joys

[@williamnethercott4364]

Wow! Maybe you could set up a "Black Museum" of things found in engines.

[@michaellizbrown1865]

Very interesting video and findings!

[@thra5herxb12s]

I managed to find some useable parts, and other bits I can use as exchange parts.

[@garypeatling7927]

Peculiar cam huge overlap ? Or do followers come off at different angle

[@thra5herxb12s]

Very late reply I know, but yes a huge overlap and hand ground and built up followers to suit this one off cam, also home ground. The rebuilt engine revved up like a Japanese bike but the valve springs couldn't keep the followers against the cam, and it hammered like a knocked out big end, so I fitted a standard cam.

[@terranreaper1935]

I'm building a Ariel to but I'm confused choosing the crankshaft rollers

[@thra5herxb12s]

There are 2 different types of bearing, a tapered pin with crowded rollers fitted to all 350s and 600 sidevalves. The 500 hunter models with polished steel flywheels take a parallel pin with caged rollers.

[@terranreaper1935]

What's the crankshaft roller size

[@thra5herxb12s]

The standard sizes are 1/4 x 1/4, but you need to measure your pin to see what oversize you need. It's easier to just get a complete big end assembly.

[@terranreaper1935]

Wow men thank you I don't see your comment before but what I mean was de roller or the bearing on de sides of the crank