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MOTRS

2000GT

1967-1970 / Coupe / Japan

All 2000GT problems All workshop issues
Common Engine, 3M 2.0L DOHC Inline-6 (Yamaha-Built)

Valve Clearance Drift

Symptoms

Ticking noise from the valve train at operating temperature, gradual loss of power, uneven cylinder performance.

Cause

The shim-over-bucket valve adjustment system requires periodic re-shimming as valve seats and cam lobes wear. This is standard maintenance, but many 2000GTs have been sitting in collections for years or decades without being run, and the valve clearances were last set during a restoration that may have been ten or twenty years ago.

Fix

Measure and adjust valve clearances using the correct shim sizes.

This requires removing the cam covers and measuring each tappet clearance with feeler gauges, then sourcing the correct replacement shims.

Shims are available from specialist suppliers.

Cost: $1,000-2,500 AUD at a specialist workshop (labour-intensive).

Cost mentioned in fix
Cost: $1,000-2,500

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// More 2000GT problems

Other known issues

Common Engine, 3M 2.0L DOHC Inline-6 (Yamaha-Built)

Carburettor Deterioration and Synchronisation Drift

Rough idle, uneven power delivery, flat spots during acceleration, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting. The engine may run rich on some cylinders and lean on others.
Critical Engine, 3M 2.0L DOHC Inline-6 (Yamaha-Built)

Timing Chain Stretch

Rattling or slapping noise from the front of the engine, particularly on cold startup. In advanced cases, the cam timing shifts, reducing power and causing rough running.
Critical Engine, 3M 2.0L DOHC Inline-6 (Yamaha-Built)

Oil System Leaks (Dry Sump)

Oil puddles under the car, oil residue on the engine and chassis, dropping oil level in the external oil tank. Potential oil starvation if leaks are severe.
Critical Cooling System

Radiator Core Degradation

Overheating, coolant loss, visible corrosion on radiator fins, reduced cooling efficiency.
Critical Cooling System

Water Pump Seal Failure

Coolant dripping from the water pump weep hole, low coolant level, overheating.
Common Body and Structure

Galvanic Corrosion at Mixed-Metal Joints

White powdery corrosion on aluminium panels, particularly where they attach to the steel chassis or steel substructure. Panels may become loose or develop cracks at attachment points.
View all 13 2000GT problems