Make your V8 last forever - pictures

<span>The original V8 cam has a gear on the end to drive the oil pump and distributor which can wear at high rpm (Pic: insanityracing.co.uk)</span>

<span>Combustion chamber’s squish effect shoots the mixture at the spark plug from the side. Multi-electrode plugs shroud the spark and don’t work so well in this</span>

<span>Crank bearings can be changed with engine in situ on most models. Chassis is jacked to let front axle drop to remove the sump</span>

<span>Head gaskets can be changed with the engine in situ if the block is serviceable. Check for camshaft for wear, and clean the oil ways while the heads are off</span>

<span>Belts and idler pulleys are service items. When belts are off for renewal, spin and check pulleys for roughness or play. Note the belt route before removal.</span>