Learning about engines

[dav1d]

I'm interested in learning about how engines work, so was thinking about taking one apart. My dad suggested to get hold of an old clapped out motorbike and have a look at that, so I was thinking this would be the best thing to do, as long as the engine still just about works. I'm not interested in the bike actually being rideable, I only want to mess about with the workings of an engine.

I want to get away with spending as little as possible, but have no idea where to start. I looked on ebay but it's a bit overwhelming, especially when I don't really have a clue what to look for.

Basically, has anyone got any advice on this kind of thing?

 

[Lashout_UK]

See if you can find a local garage or scrapyard - they'll no doubt have some knackered engine that you can take away to disassemble and play with

If you want any book recommendations too, do shout. There's lots of good material on the internet, too

 

[Entai]

Yeah tinkering around with an old engine is a great way to get a hands on idea of the workings.

I stripped my first engine when I was 6, although my dad did always take great pleasure in reminding me that I did not get it back together working untill I was 10.

 

[dav1d]

Thinking about it, would it be better to get a whole bike, to see how everything all worked together, rather than just the engine?

If so, what kind of bike should I be looking at that I could get extremely cheaply?