Rebuilding questions???
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Member
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 295
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From: Chicago, IL
Rebuilding questions???
I'm not the super star mechanic I like to think I am... just a novice with a chilton's manual and a 154 piece tool kit.
My engine is closing in on 160,000 miles and I think its about time I freshened things up. This is my first high performance car and learning experience so bare with me please...
My plan is to freshen things up with mild performance. I'd like to know suggestions in the area of replacements parts that you people suggest... this is my daily driver... just looking for good 0 to 60 improvement... not 9 sec time slips....
I'd appreciate the assist, thanks....
My engine is closing in on 160,000 miles and I think its about time I freshened things up. This is my first high performance car and learning experience so bare with me please...
My plan is to freshen things up with mild performance. I'd like to know suggestions in the area of replacements parts that you people suggest... this is my daily driver... just looking for good 0 to 60 improvement... not 9 sec time slips....
I'd appreciate the assist, thanks....
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 652
Likes: 0
From: Virginia
First off, start looking for a "core" or replacement engine to build, unless you want to use your original engine.
Next, do an Amazon search for "Vizard" and Chevy. Get this how to books, these will help greatly.
Next, get a GM ( Helms ) service manual for your car, this goes through a rebuild step-by-step with clearances, torque settings etc.
This is alot of info to absorb, so I'd recommend doing this before turning any wrenches. You will LEARN alot from the resources available to you.
Rebuilding an engine isn't rocket science, the MAIN key, IMHO, is taking your time and double-checking EVERYTHING you do. If you're hesitant, or have ANY questions about something, address that issue BEFORE moving on to something else.
Most of the specialized tools you'll need can be gotten from those parts stores that run a loaner tool program.
Things you'll need / want and will make the whole experience ALOT better:
- a GOOD, 4 leg engine stand ( I was torquing the heads down on a 350 once on a 3 leg stand...almost lost my leg..lesson learned )
- A good torque wrench, with a RECENT calibration if possible, if not NEW
- A drip or catch pan for cleaning up stuff
- Plenty of CLEAN shop rags
- Large plastic bags ( thick trashbags work ) to cover the engine / block if left sitting overnight...this will keep flash rust from appearing... soaking it with WD-40 helps too.
Figure out EXACTLY what you want out of your engine when it's done. That way you can avoid making expensive errors by buying parts you really don't need, have to upgrade to use etc.
The L98 is a good engine.
With a good cam, cleaned up heads, cleaning up the TPI tract, ( porting the plenum, cleaning up the intake etc ) I don't see ANY problem in making 350 HP if not more.
Use the TPI's abundant torque to your advantage and don't add things that want to work at higher RPM's...
HTH
Next, do an Amazon search for "Vizard" and Chevy. Get this how to books, these will help greatly.
Next, get a GM ( Helms ) service manual for your car, this goes through a rebuild step-by-step with clearances, torque settings etc.
This is alot of info to absorb, so I'd recommend doing this before turning any wrenches. You will LEARN alot from the resources available to you.
Rebuilding an engine isn't rocket science, the MAIN key, IMHO, is taking your time and double-checking EVERYTHING you do. If you're hesitant, or have ANY questions about something, address that issue BEFORE moving on to something else.
Most of the specialized tools you'll need can be gotten from those parts stores that run a loaner tool program.
Things you'll need / want and will make the whole experience ALOT better:
- a GOOD, 4 leg engine stand ( I was torquing the heads down on a 350 once on a 3 leg stand...almost lost my leg..lesson learned )
- A good torque wrench, with a RECENT calibration if possible, if not NEW
- A drip or catch pan for cleaning up stuff
- Plenty of CLEAN shop rags
- Large plastic bags ( thick trashbags work ) to cover the engine / block if left sitting overnight...this will keep flash rust from appearing... soaking it with WD-40 helps too.
Figure out EXACTLY what you want out of your engine when it's done. That way you can avoid making expensive errors by buying parts you really don't need, have to upgrade to use etc.
The L98 is a good engine.
With a good cam, cleaned up heads, cleaning up the TPI tract, ( porting the plenum, cleaning up the intake etc ) I don't see ANY problem in making 350 HP if not more.
Use the TPI's abundant torque to your advantage and don't add things that want to work at higher RPM's...
HTH
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