Dnepr NO LONGER FOR SALE

[stormcoat]

Dear all, I have relisted my Petter engined Dnepr on ebay. Although I have not been able to cure the starting problem, which is why I withdrew it last time, I have, at least, solved the mystery. All that is required is to drill and tap the two bosses that are cast into the INTAKE MANIFOLD to accept two Ford Dexta type coil heater plugs. I have copied the email that a very thoughtful ebay client sent me with the details:




Hey Richard, here is a photo of the earlier type heater plug that was used on the Petter A range diesels, this is a smaller threaded and lower wattage plug compared to the later type that had a considerably bigger thread and higher wattage, the later type is also known as the 'heavy duty' version. The part number for the early type is 327523 and the heavy duty type is 363102. The best one to fit your AD manifold would definitley be the smaller early type and indeed the AC2 engines had these heater plugs fitted on some builds as did the AA, AB and AC1 engines built to military spec for aircraft engine heater duty, the Petter diesel engine driving a kerosene fuel pump to feed the heater/blowers that kept the aircooled aircraft radial engines warm enough to start, those engines would self destruct if a startup attempt was made below certain temperatures as the aluminiun parts would contract to the point of seizing the engine solid, the Petter engines also had to be designed to function in very cold weather which is why those military builds had heater plugs fitted. The thread diameter on this plug is 0.815" and looks like BSP, that would make it 1/2" BSP I suppose, I think I have that tap if you need to borrow one. The heater plug that you see in the photo is a used one that is in working order although is not quite as good as a new one, they tend to slowly go down hill in their performance over time, with the section of the spring that glows red hot getting less and less with use until they no longer work well enough and have to be changed. There are some numbers on this plug - 12v, M8, 11 720 212, if you want me to lend you this plug and possibly a BSP tap let me know, alternatively if you would like me to drill and tap you manifold for you let me know. All the best, Roland

The bidding has begun, so I shall not be withdrawing it this time.
There has been a great deal of work and research done on this project. I does work and should not have many problems getting through MOT as long as the wiring is carefully tidied up and tested. The sidecar has been fitted and adjusted properly, with the correct toe in and lean out. It may need adjusting for the rider's preference, but should be fine for the first drive.

The sidecar has no brake, at present, but parts are available and easily fitted.

Good luck bidding. I hope the winner will attend this year's rally and post some photos as i should be very happy to see it running.

Stormcoat.