Palmer p-60 problem

[Jerry C]

I have a Palmer P-60 in an Islander 30. The engine runs great however I noticed some smoke coming from the oil dipstick / breather cap. This is only visible when I run the boat speed up over 4 knots. I googled this problem and found your website. Apparently this is not an uncommon problem. If I understood an earlier response to a similar question it could be something to do with the flame arrester and a slotted pipe mounted in front of the flame arrestor. Is this correct and if so are there any pictures or diagrams available showing this arrangement? I also noticed that at the higher RPM there was a small amount of oil with some bubbles leaking from around one of the head bolts. Again, it did not do this until I increased the RPMs. I don't have a tack but I would guess I an at around 1800 RPM when all of this occurs. The leak around the head bolt is probably due to a bad head gasket.
I would appreciate any help you could share on this problem.

[Will Jacocks]

Welcome to the forums Jerry! Many here just make sure the head bolts are torqued down to specs. But be careful not to overtorque them as they will break! If you search the forums you can see links to PDF's of the engine and it's components, download those and you can see what the parts you need look like.

Good luck!

[tenders]

The smoke sounds to me like blowby, which occurs gradually as the rings wear, or suddenly when the rings crack. The solution is new rings, but a PCV valve that puts a vacuum across the crankcase and sucks the smoke in through the carb, can solve the problem in the short- to medium-term.

The water sounds like a failed head gasket, or a pinhole in the head.

I've heard you can get Palmer parts via tractor repair shops. Is that true?

[Jerry C]

Is there ant type of additive that will help with the rings if this is the problem?

[2dogsfishin]

Change the oil less one pint. Add one pint of MMO, Marvel Mystery Oil and run that 10 to 20 hours - observe. Other good suggestions from other members also good.

I have rebuilt several P-60's over the years. Except for the crankshaft, manifold and marine parts, it is a Farmall Cub tractor engine. Three main bearings and somewhat stronger than an A4. I have a good running take out waiting attention, then it will be available after test running.

I get parts from The Little Red Tractor Shop in Nebraska or another firm that specializes in old tractors in PA. I can send you phone numbers when I am back at work.

Tom 850 572 1225