Atomic 4

bootsy1962 · #1 (**permalink**) 07-12-2001

We have an Atomic 4 on our sailboat. It has been the worst nightmare I''ve ever encountered. I have definitely rebuilt the "outside" of the engine, i.e. carburator, alternator, starter, coil, distributor; basically spent about $1,800.00 to get it running, and the thing is still dealing me fits. We did a compression test, and there was no compression on two cylinders. We think its a blown head gasket. I tried to take the head off, removed the bolts, but the head is "fused" to the block. Sources tell me that it has gotten too much heat, and we shouldn''t put another dime in it and ditch it. My question is, should I continue, and what do I do to continue? Or, should I just buy an outboard and boogy. We are currently in a slip/marine that is not "ours", even though they haven''t figured out we''re there yet. I need to move the boat, basically about 85 miles back to our slip. Suggestions?

kimberlite · #2 (**permalink**) 07-12-2001

there is an atomic 4 talk group on the e-mail forum on sailnet. why not subscribe to it and ask your question. i believe there is a fellow named moyer that is the a-4 expertt in new england
eric

CarlT · #3 (**permalink**) 09-11-2001

I''m the owner of an A4 too. If a head sticks when all bolts are removed, crank the engine. It may be a blown head gasket if the cylinders are next to each other.
Good Luck. Carl T. Knox
PS: I think most boaters are understanding and would set you stay in their slip as long as they ar''nt using it.