Page 14: Splitting The Sump
May 2004
Most of the springs turned out to be good, but the cups all needed to be replaced. Gary was able to buy a new set from the factory. The heads are done and wrapped up in celophane. Gary has started the sump separation. Here you can see that the four holes that allow oil to flow between the engine and the transmission have been welded up. Gary cuts a disk to fit in each hole, and welds it in place from both sides of the block. This is just one of many steps necessary to isolate the two systems. Notice the four-main-bolt caps. These engines are built very strong.
Compare the previous photo of my block to this late SV block with a factory split sump. It never had the holes. (The hole to the right is for the pass-through shift tube. You can see where it comes out on the near side of the block. Part of the shift linkage goes through the tube from the front of the engine to the transmission in the rear.)
The next step is mine. I need to start bringing in all of the engine parts from home.
Update - June 5
I've started to bring in more engine parts. Here is the first load. Lots more to come!
Other Miuras
I thought it might be interesting to look at the other Miuras in Gary's shop. At the moment, he has five cars other than mine.
SV, in worse condition than mine was! (This somehow makes me feel better.)
Beautiful red SV.
P400. Bytheway, notice the difference in the front opening between this car and the SV above. The side of the P400 opening comes to a point, while the SV opening is rounded.
Late SV. This is the car that has the factory split sump.
Early P400. The wire wheels are an interesting touch. The factory did deliver a few cars with Borranis.
There is an interesting story with each one. Gary obviously knows these cars very well. He has restored dozens of them over the years. I'm comfortable mine is in good hands and fortunate to live so close that I can visit the shop.