BMC 5.1 Diesel Startup

[@jonathanpardoe8722]

Years ago , I had an engineless Motor Torpedo boat from WW2 (The 1120 horse power petrol Stirling admirals long gone ) I wanted to return it to servicable condition and got hold of two brand new crated BMC 5.1 engines . Careful research into what propellor size would give the 72 ft boat maximum useable power gave me 15 knots and the engines were fabulous . instant access all round , ease of servicing and quiet steady reassuring throb of the engines was very impressive . Always started first time and very economical .

[@knackeredrovers]

Yes, these engines found their way into lots of other things. Most end of life lorries donated their engines to keep canal boats, plant, tractors etc. going. This engine is destined for a Nuffield tractor. They do run really nicely, particularly in marine applications where they sit at constant revs for extended periods. They’re not brilliant in the hands of lead-footed delivery drivers in 9-ton lorries though, as they need to be driven extremely hard to make mediocre progress, which is why I have chosen to replace mine with a 150 bhp 5.9 litre Cummins.

[@edwardkennedy9919]

These engine's were in the Leyland terriers.

[@Martyn220179]

Such a nice sounding engine. We have a 5.1L BMC in a Nuffield tractor but this has an in-line injector pump. I thought the 5.7L engine only had the rotary pump.👍

[@paulthompson8467]

A neighbor of ours put the same engine in a Nuffield universal tractor great machine 👍

[@knackeredrovers]

Yes, that’s where a lot of them have ended up. In actual fact, that’s exactly where this one is headed. 😀👍

[@Diesel8290]

Good old lump them we have one in a 10-60 Nuffield

[@philhealey449]

Well this sounds purposeful!

[@knackeredrovers]

Thanks. It’s gone off to a new home now. I would have liked to make use of it, but I already have too many projects for one lifetime. With the BMC engine and gearbox out I have been able to carry out the necessary chassis repairs, and am a good way through fitting the replacement engine and gearbox, which is a Cummins 6BT and 5-speed ZF. Should fly. 😀👍

[@juancova5857]

Lucas or cav pump?

[@knackeredrovers]

I think it’s a CAV one, but I’ll check. 👍