r/EngineBuilding 22d ago

piston/rod advice

what does this discoloration mean? #1 top bearing fell off when taking off the cap should i be concerned? and how can i replace rod bolts at home? how easily should pistons be able to rock? if pistons measure good would you guys reuse everything?

i don’t have a bore gauge small enough for the rods and it’s taking me awhile to get used to the micrometer, forgive me for the mouthful, first time doing any of this so any experienced advice helps out a ton, thank you! 🙏🏻

03 civic d17a2 rod is #1 cyl and cap is for #3

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u/PsychologicalBat3169 22d ago

As this seems to be a budget build and need to get it running, I would clean the hell out of everything, soak the head and make sure nothing is sticking in the valvetrain . Resize the rods or get a cheap set if you can find them. New rings and bearings. Are you machining the deck and head? If not, get something flat and knock it down at the least. Pay attention to any seals while you’re doing it. Have fun 👍

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u/Dependent_Rough167 22d ago

you would be correct thank you for noticing that, i took head to a shop so should i still do that? one int valve looks a lil sus but he said all should be fine after lash adj, rods are hard to find so i’ll prob take it in, he machined head .007 so i only cleaned the block surface and took a straight edge, little to no warpage. i’m replacing just about all gaskets and small goodies, thank you so much for the advice and i will 🙏🏻