The Chrysler Gen. III 6.1 Hemi engine installed in the Hemiceptor was first started on November 29, 2017. This event was supervised by Griffith Davies of D&D Customs who configured the initial tune of the FAST XFI and XIM engine management system. This event is documented in a YouTube video.
The Hemiceptor was then transported by enclosed trailer to D&D Customs in Polson, MT for tuning on their chassis dynamometer.
On January 11, 2018, the Hemiceptor was mounted to the dynamometer, started and warmed. Grif Davies then refined the engine tuning map prior to one partial throttle power pull.
After further refinement of tuning parameters, Grif prepared the car for a full throttle pull. However, it then became obvious there was a problem.
On acceleration, the Hemiceptor Chysler Hemi engine began shaking and misfiring, and backfiring through the left side exhaust. Disconnection and reconnection of coils on the left hand cylinder bank revealed cylinders misfiring. A subsequent compression test revealed figures ranging from 0 to 45 lbs. of compression on the left hand bank of cylinders.
More significantly, removal of the spark plugs revealed the two plugs in cylinder 5 and the two plugs in cylinder 7 had their spark gaps crushed shut. Inspection of the piston with a borescope revealed evidence of scoring on the head of pistons 5 and 7.
The engine was clearly damaged, and D&D Customs proceeded with removal of the engine and delivery of the unit to Bradford Balance and Machine of Kalispell, MT. Removal of the heads revealed broken pistons on cylinders 5 and 7.
The engine was completely torn down and the removed pistons showed similar damage on both cylinders 5 and 7. It was the conclusion of Dan Bradford (and other engine builders subsequently consulted) that there was insufficient piston ring end gap clearance afforded upon engine assembly. This condition lead to the rings seizing as the engine warmed, causing fracture of the top of the pistons just above the piston rings.
The engine was rebuilt by Bradford to the specifications discussed here.
It should be noted that prior to rebuilding the engine, we requested a replacement of the engine from Chrysler Corporation. We produced an illustrated publication discussing the history of the motor and the piston failure. This booklet was submitted to both Chrysler corporate headquarters and divisional offices.
There was no response from Chrysler. Nothing.