I am about to rebuild a motor from misc good parts from three other 13BT's.
My question is would it be wise to use used side seals (within spec) in conjunction with new 2 piece apex seals?

I have about 32 side seals laying around the garage from motore that have either blow a apex seal or haved spun main bearings. About 24 side seals are well within limits. I do plan on buying new side seal springs though.

Just curious if it would affect break in time any different? I am aware of compression issues if the side seals are out of spec.

Second question is I am in the Air National Guard and have access to a lapping machine at my bases machine shop. The machine is digital and very percise and should have no problem lapping the side housings in one pass. BUT i have heard that the irons need to be treated with nitrogen gas injection after the lapping. How crucial is this nitrogen treatment to the wear life of the side/intermediate housings?

I just want to do this right but DO NOT want to pay Mazdatrix prices AND shipping from Montana to Cali. Looking at over 450.00$ for just lapping. Hold the smart *** remarks I am a tight ***.

Thanks for your help, it is appreciated.

 

if they are within spec, like the tight end of spec, i dont see why not to use used side seals.

http://www.yawpower.com/engines.html

if you can lap your housings like that says, then do it, if not, either skip it or send em out

 

Thanks. Not sure if I want to skip it because this motor will be over 400hp and I want a fresh start. I might bite the mazdatrix bullet.