UPDATE : I have given the smaller 3BIM engine a full 48 hours for all the sealant to harden and there is now a real improvement. It will run on for about 14 revolutions now. There is no oil leaking from around the pipework ; only oil leaking from the exhaust pipe so enough oil must be getting through to lubricate the cylinder and piston. The only air I can detect leaking from anywhere is a small amount from the bottom of the displacement lubricator. I suspect that this is normal function because there is no oil leaking from there hence nothing more to be done.
I will give the larger 7BIM another 24 hours and try it again.
7BIM update : I have checked the cranks on the 7BIM engine and they did not look like they were set exactly 90 degrees to each. After a slight adjustment the engine will run on for 12 revolutions. This is a big improvement. I may have to check the valve timings too. What was not crucial when running the cylinders independently is very important once the two cylinders are connected via the manifold.
3BIM engine ; I have altered the valve timings slightly and this single cylinder engine will now run on for over 20 revolutions. That is very good. There is still a slight amount of binding at BDC. Sometimes it is there and sometimes it is not so I am a bit puzzled. I might have to fiddle a bit more with this.
1. But isn't there supposed to be steam oil in the cylinder ?
2. The 7BIM twin cylinder engine only drops steam oil from the exhaust farthest from the displacement lubricator. I would have thought steam oil should be exhausting from both cylinders. I am puzzled why there is no oil coming from the exhaust on the cylinder closest to the lubricator. It does run nicely though .
1. Only a smear you don't want it building up and causing a hydralic lock. Infact as you are running on air you really don't need steam oil as at room temp its a bit thick and sticky try changing to a lighter weight oil and it should run even smoother
2. Suggests one cylinder is working more than the other and the valve timing may be different between the two. If anything the more direct route is to teh cyl nearest the lubricator so you would have expected more oil there is anywhere
With the oiler off centre, initially you would get uneven oiling, but once the oil is through both sides it will be OK. Sewing machine oil is quite good. 3 in 1 oil is similar to WD 40 in that it tends to gum up the works.