Cracked Piston
 

I have cracked piston. I was cleaning the carbon off the top of them and noticed a small crack. The intake valve was not seating properly on that cylinder causing the backfiring. In general, what could be some of the causes for the piston to be cracked?

Re: Cracked Piston
 

Using starting fluid can crack a piston or water will do it too.... what has happened is that at one time too much pressure was developed....in the ole days we used a fine spray of water to decarbon a chamber...but you had to be careful not to spray too much water or you would risk cracking a piston....water flashes into steam and removes carbon deposits.... at one time you might have had a leaking head gasket..that does it too.

Re: Cracked Piston
 

I've seen burned pistons, and one piston with a crack in the skirt, but don't ever recall seeing a crack in the top of a piston.

Re: Cracked Piston
 

thanks for your responses. I think I may look for another engine as i am seeing other issues as well.

Re: Cracked Piston
 

If there is a crack in the top of the piston, I suspect you got it just in time. It would have broken very soon and caused a whole lot more pain It doesn't surprise me that you are finding other issues. Sounds like another motor or a rebuild is in order.

Re: Cracked Piston
 

too much advance leading to detonation which is very destructive