I just got my block back from the machinest and to my surprize, it wasn't assembled. I've done a few small blocks but I haven't put one together in awhile but I can do this easily with some help from you guys. The block was bored to a 355, I have Eagle I beam rods, Clevite bearings, Probe forged pistons
Part # P2256F-030 , Chev 350, 4.030 bore, 3.480 stroke, 5.700 1.563 5/64 5/64 3/16 D Wall .250 .170 .090 .927 x 3.000 Press Fit Flat Top 4.0cc
I don't have the rings yet so I need help picking the right ones. I also have a set of AFR 195's with a 65 cc combustion chamber.
Installing the crank I'm kinda rusty on (checking clearances). Any tips to make this go smoothly would be appreciated. Thank you.

 

Any moly faced rings will do, if the block is honed for them, like SLP E-251K030. File them to the gap specified by the piston manufacturer.

What tools do you have for checking bearing clearance?

 

Nothing yet. I need to pick up the right stuff but don't want to spend an arm and a leg.

 

Flat feeler gauges for measuring the ring gap are inexpensive. A bore gauge and micrometers for measuring bearing clearances is best, plastigauge also works, but it's not exceptionally accurate.

 

I keep a good mic set, dial calipers, snap gauge set, and a dial bore gauge for engine assembly, but i do it for a living. Probably snap gauges and a set of mics will get you rolling. DO not rely on plastigauge, but its ok to use it, just as added insurance. I do it a lot, after measuring and assembling, a quick double check for that warm and fuzzy feeling inside. Plastigauge only tells part of the story, when its accurate.

 

If you're ever going to build more than one engine in your lifetime, you can pick up a set of inexpensive Chinese precision measuring tools. If you were to abuse them or use them day in and day out they might not last as long, but they're good enough for occasional work.

 

I have flat feeler gauges but I should go buy the dials. I don't plan on building anymore engines for awhile. I'm going to price them tomorrow.