I am putting together my engine using all new seals and springs. Well when I got to the part of assembling the rotor, I noticed that I could not fit my corner seals in because the side seals were in the way. In the rebuild video it gives clearancing numbers for side seals. I'm thinking I probably need to trim the side seals a little... but to what clearance would be good?

yes you do need to trim them but I am not sure of the gap.

it's in the fsm, I can't recall off the top of my head though. No fsm handy here at the datacenter.

The side seals come in lengths that need to be trimmed. This is because engine builders use varying side seal to corner seal clearances, depending on how you want your engine to perform (or so I'm told).



For example, standard clearance on a 13B is .004 - .006 in (0.1 -0.15 mm).



If you want an engine that will run longer go to the upper limit, if you want more power over a short lifespan, go to the lower limit.



Also, be careful how you trim the side seals back. From memory, only one end needs filing. Look carefully at each end and you should notice one end is shaped more sharply than the other. That's the end you trim.



Use a file and work from the inside of the seal upwards and out.



Don't put side seals on a wire wheel, either as this damages the outer layer.



Cheers,

Peter

the limit is .01 of an inch, anywhere befor that is good, make sure teh sideseal has enouf clearance to not get jammed but not too big to loose compression. when u file it down make sure you do it so its at an angle as it will be at an angle to teh corner seal when you put it in, also pu tinteh side seal after you put in teh corner seals its easier.

i use a bench grinder with a stone wheel that is water lubed

i use a sanding bit on a dermel, which happens to be about the size of the corner seal