I've been after one of these little overhead valve engines in a desultory fashion for some time. I've chased four without success, but finally collared one with a stuck valve for about twenty-five quid on e-bay a few weeks ago.
The more exciting ST flat twin has taken my attention recently, but I finally got around to the Villiers yesterday. It was neglected & filthy dirty, thus preserving the remains of its green paint. After cleaning with Gunk (not the same as the product I used in my youth - ah, the smell on a hot engine ;o)) )The rusty steel bits were actually brightened considerably by the cautious application of a brass wire brush & an oily rag, discovering a lot more painted surface than was immediately obvious - this apro pos of our running conversation here about whether to repaint or not ;o))
As it starts & runs just fine, I've decided to ignore the occasionally sticky valve & see if it gets worse or better before investigating.
The leaking petrol tap (round barrel) was removed & an Enott's tap (flat slide) was recorked & fitted. This was then beyond the reach of the pipe, so I turned the tank around.
HAH!
The tank had been sat on by a giant, requiring squashing in a padded vice to regain its shape. The straps were all distorted & needed straightening. Whatever had filled the rust holes at one end fell off & the hole needed re-sealing (Plastic Metal at thus stage - we'll see .........) Took all evening.
And now we are ready to run without a "pouring out" tap - which is exactly what I'm going to do after breakfast.
Regards,
Kim Siddorn
Time flies like an arrow Fruit flies like a banana