Installing pistons, rods, bearings, ARP bolts in a Triumph TR6

This channel is about things that are not in the manual that I learn along the way. This is especially true today as I haven't rebuilt an engine since the late 70s, and things have changed a lot. Today I am installing pistons and rods in my TR6 engine. Things not covered in the manual I learned include special considerations like using ARP bolts on rods, which rings and pistons to buy, custom fitting pistons to the bore, finding a ring compressor that fits, choosing bi-metal or tri-metal bearings, assembly lube (other than old school STP), and keeping the install spotless with Kim Wipes. While I was at it I just video'd the whole process as some things are unclear in the manual - like which side of the piston is the "thrust" side, which tells you which way to align the ring gaps.
As always I enjoy hearing about your project, and how you do things!

[@williamlucas8793]

Great content as always! Thanks for the information. I now know that I need to have a conversation regarding the ARP bolts with my machine shop. My engine progress is about 6 weeks behind yours, so please keep going with the videos.

[@triumphrestoration7403]

thanks! let me know how yours goes....

[@randygibson7538]

Hello, My name is Randy Gibson. I own a 1971 Triumph TR6. Why are Kim Wipes so important? Will not any tissue work? Thanks

[@triumphrestoration7403]

Hi Randy. Most tissues leave lint behind. So you will trap lint in the bearing. Not sure how bad that is, to be honest, probably no big deal. Kim wipes are designed for clean rooms, leave no lint or other fibers, and are cheap enough. I discovered Kim Wipes on an engine builder website, not sure where now. Same argument for using them is made here: www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/techarticles/101-Projects-17-Head-Gasket/101-Projects-17-Head-Gasket_2.htm. My very first engine build in the 70s I trashed the bearings on my 64 Spitfire after about 1,000 miles - from not being careful enough. Now I am over careful. Plus, I do this for fun, as a hobby. Couldn't make a living spending a bunch of time on being so careful.

[@rogerkrey]

While you seem ultra concerned with cleanliness but you are using a carpenters hammer instead of a machinists hammer ???

[@triumphrestoration7403]

Not sure I understand your point. I used the wood handle end. It is quite a good hammer handle, was thoroughly cleaned, and did not chip or leave residue. Many machinist's hammers also have wood handles. Don't see the need to use a machinist's hammer wood handle as opposed to the carpenter hammer wood handle. Am I missing something?