Piston question

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Jan 12, 2011 | 08:51 PM

wtroger

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Piston question

I have a 7.3 short block setting on the engine stand and at the top of each piston directly above the prechamber cut out appears to be piston erosion on the edge of the piston some are worse than others. What would have caused this and I assume this means the pistons aren't usable in an engine refresh.

Jan 12, 2011 | 10:13 PM

Dave Sponaugle

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From: Nutter Fort, WV

Any way you can post a picture of that?

Jan 13, 2011 | 05:21 PM

rodneywar

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From: Maryland

well with out a pic to help out but Piston crown erosion is commonly known as "Piston Burning" and is normally a result of an improper air/fuel ratio balance. meaning the motor was over fueling and heating up the crown to the point where it starts falling apart hence the erosion

Jan 13, 2011 | 10:22 PM

Dave Sponaugle

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From: Nutter Fort, WV

Also know as EGT's above 1250 degrees.
Crank the fuel then lug the engine down with the throttle on the floor, piston erosion.

Jan 15, 2011 | 07:26 PM

wtroger

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Pictures

Jan 15, 2011 | 10:02 PM

rodneywar

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From: Maryland

yea the pistons started to melt due to overfueling or just lugging the motor

Jan 16, 2011 | 12:30 AM

Dave Sponaugle

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From: Nutter Fort, WV

Actually that looks like it has passed a glow plug tip or two to me in addition to being hot.

You can still almost read the part numbers on the piston.

I would not reuse those pistons.