Just got a 1991 Z28 5.7 TPI L98. smog has been removed, the heater valve is gone. console says 125k on the clock but unsure how long the cluster has been not working, i replaced a fuse today and got it going again.

anyways, I can hear an exhaust leak by the top of the pass side manifold/y-pipe. almost cant hear it because of a loud engine knock. which leads me to believe its spun a bearing. it leaks oil by the filter but havent chased the leak yet. was going to part the car out, but thought about rebuilding the motor and making a driver out of it.

ive got good oil pressure, but i have not let it really heat up yet because of the knock. oil is full and loud knocking on pass side still.. pulled the valve covers and there is no coolant in the oil. but the tops of the valve covers were dry, very little oil on the rockers and springs. thinking a 350 rebuild kit and new oil pump.

can someone suggest a good package to rebuild the bottom end? i want to stay 350 ci, no block work. do i just need new rod bearings and new crank? i pulled a spark plug and it looked normal, no smoke in the exhaust on start up.

what actually causes the loud knocking sound? how does a bearing equate to knock?

sorry if i jumped around and made no sence

 

http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Econom...Main,5309.html

Look at kit number 9151035 it is a 383 with 6" rods for $519.

Speedway is a trusted source.

And for the knock, think of a unbalanced washing machine.

 

I highly suggest pulling apart what you've got to examine everything first. It's the only real way to determine what you may need.

 

got he engine out, and took off the oil pan, one of the rod bearings is toast. none of the rest have any movement.

this is what i expected. How do i continue? order a replacement crank and a set of ne rod bearings? should i replace the main bearings or the oil pump? one i fix this, the head gaskets are next, unless i should to the top end first??

thanks