Off brand crank repair question

[454MRW]

I am working on an off brand engine (79PE250), and the ignition side crank seal area has some pitting that has me more than just a little concerned. I had a new rod kit put in this hard to find crank and the installer, which is quite the perfectionist, pointed out to me that the pitting on the ignition side crank seal, which is very evident,  needs to be filled either with JB Weld, which would be just a temporary fix, or some type of filler like Silver Solder needs to be applied or the possibility of it drawing air and causing a lean situation or engine seizure might occur over time. I do not know if anyone makes a custom sized sleeve like used on automotive harmonic balancers to restore the seal area, but has anyone ever tried Silver Solder to fill in pitting on a crankshaft or engine component like this? Thanks, Mike

Michael R. Winter
I enjoy rebuilding and appreciating Pentons!
1974 250 HS Pentons-1980 KTM 175-400'S

[firstturn]

Mike,
  I have never used silver solder, but I have had success with JB.  You have to get the area really clean and wire brush out the pitting.  I use a brass wire brush (and paint thinner)since I feel it will  do the best job.  A sleeve would be great if you could have one made or find one that size and cut the length to your application.

Ron Carbaugh

[Kip Kern]

Mike
Call Forest Stahl 765-284-7653, he can help if you send it to him;)

[chicagojerry]

there is also another option that i have used succesfully on some of my race bikes for exactly this problem. its an easy to install
"speedi-sleeve" available in different sizes at most good bearing houses or or some napa stores have a similar product. its a very thin, probably a couple thousands, sleeve that presses over the damaged area. i believe that chicago rawhide makes the speedi-sleeve and another may be morse, i'm not sure on the second one but i could find out.   chicago jerry

[454MRW]

Speedi-sleeve would probably be a good way to remedy this without spending a lot of $ to fix it. I just wasn't sure that they make them in the size I need. I will check with my local Napa today and see if they have them. I really don't want to have to tear it down very often to re-do JB Weld as sugggested by my crank rebuilder. I will call Forest Stahl and see what he has to say and If I can't find a Speedi-sleeve in the right size, I will probably send it to him. I would probably use the JB weld under the speedi-sleeve regardless, to assure a smooth surface for it to adhere to. I am planning on riding this in the Renuion Ride this year if it turns out good. Thanks for everyones suggestions, I greatly appreciate the help! Mike

Michael R. Winter
I enjoy rebuilding and appreciating Pentons!
1974 250 HS Pentons-1980 KTM 175-400'S

[sachsmx]

I have used all 3 techniques, JB Weld, Speedy-Sleeves, and silver solder. I have also used Devcon products with good results that should withstand wear better than JB Weld. I would try the Speedy-Sleeve first, then either Devcon or silver solder.