Engine: 1950 Champion Engine Vibration

[TWChamp]

I bought my 50 Champ about 8 months ago. The car had a frame off restoration about 20 years ago and doesn't look like it had 200 miles in the next 20 years. I don't know what, if anything, was done to the engine. I put about 2,000 enjoyable miles on it last summer, but it used a quart of oil every 250 miles and has a bit more vibration than it should have. I don't notice the vibration while driving, but at about 1200 to 1500 RPM standing still, the engine has more vibration than normal. Does anyone have any ideas? The only thing I can think of is a bad harmonic damper on the front of the crankshaft.

[StudeRich]

A non-balanced rebuilt or New Clutch Pressure Plate and or Flywheel will contribute to that condition if not be the cause.

[nvonada]

Any difference with the clutch in or out? What is the frequency of the vibration? If it is audible a mechanic's stethoscope (or a long screwdriver held to your ear) might help isolate where it is coming from. You might check oil pressure and compression too just to cover the bases.

[TWChamp]

Good oil pressure.
I think Rich might be right about the flywheel could be the problem. I need to try to contact the owner that restored it 20 years ago to see what was done to the engine. I may have to ring it anyway, if the oil loss doesn't get better.

[Warren Webb]

Temporarily disconnect the fan belt to make sure it's not the generator or water pump doing it. Check motor mounts making sure they are all tight. When I got my 60 convertible I found bolts loose on the bell housing to the extent that some had fallen out. Take nothing for granted.

[royvaldez]

Have you recently installed a clutch and pressure plate. Could be your problem. Bell housing not balanced.