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The LAST Rebuild Ran 10 Miles... Will The 235 Chevy Last THIS Time?

Jim's Automotive Machine Shop, Inc.・2 minutes read

The engine rebuild process involves cleaning, measuring, and reassembling components like rods, pistons, and the crankshaft with careful attention to detail and proper installation techniques to ensure optimal performance and functionality. Specific tools and procedures, such as measuring pistons accurately, marking rod orientation, and using silicone coatings on gaskets, are essential for a successful rebuild and long-lasting engine operation.

Insights

  • The engine rebuilding process involves intricate steps such as rod and piston reusing, precise measurements, and thorough cleaning to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
  • Attention to detail is crucial, from the unique cinch bolt setup on rods to specific bar usage for support during bolt removal, indicating a meticulous approach to engine maintenance and repair for quality outcomes.

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Recent questions

  • How are pistons cleaned before reassembly?

    In the process of cleaning pistons before reassembly, they are placed in a spray cabinet to remove any dirt or debris. This step ensures that the pistons are free from contaminants that could affect their performance once they are put back into the engine.

  • What is the purpose of marking rods for orientation?

    Rods are marked for orientation to ensure that they are reassembled correctly and maintain the proper alignment within the engine. This step is crucial in preventing any issues with the rods fitting properly and functioning as intended once the engine is put back together.

  • How are crankshaft measurements taken and adjusted?

    Crankshaft measurements are taken to ensure that it meets specifications, with specific attention paid to any scratches or imperfections. If needed, the crankshaft is ground or polished to remove any defects and bring it within the acceptable range for optimal engine performance.

  • What is the significance of using silicone coating on gaskets?

    Silicone coating on gaskets is used to help seal imperfections and warpage on engine parts, ensuring a tight and secure fit. This step is essential in preventing any leaks or loss of pressure within the engine, maintaining its efficiency and functionality.

  • How is the oil pump installed for proper functionality?

    The oil pump is carefully cleaned and reassembled before installation, with specific attention paid to debris like Miller bugs. It is then installed with a specific locking bolt and tube connection to ensure proper oil flow and pressure within the engine. Before final assembly, the oil pump is spun to check for oil pressure, aiming for around 40-45 lb, and observing the steady flow of oil to confirm proper lubrication.

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Summary

00:00

Engine Rebuild Process: Rods, Pistons, Crankshaft

  • The plan involves reusing rods and pistons, replacing rings, cleaning pistons, measuring them, and resizing the rods.
  • The rods have a unique cinch bolt setup instead of clips to secure the pin in the rod.
  • A specific bar is used to support the rod during bolt removal to prevent damage.
  • The engine had a piston that kissed a valve, potentially affecting performance.
  • The rods are checked for bend and twist, with a simple fix for any issues found.
  • Rods are cleaned in a spray cabinet before reassembly.
  • Pistons are measured accurately using a specialized tool for precise sizing.
  • Pistons are checked for clearance and cosmetic damage, with adjustments made as needed.
  • Rods are marked for orientation and lubricated before being attached to the pistons.
  • The crankshaft is inspected for scratches and measured to ensure it meets specifications.

18:46

Precision Engine Rebuild Process Summary

  • Lowest measurement is 2.2817, 3/10 away from the high side.
  • Journals measure on the high side, closer to high side than low side.
  • Crankshaft measurements taken, ground nicely, rods and mains 30 under.
  • Crankshaft ground towards higher side of spec, closer to tight side.
  • Crankshaft polished, scratches removed, looks fresh.
  • Caps on block bearings checked, some adjustments needed.
  • Federal Mogul 30 under bearings found, installed with hardened washers.
  • Clearance measured on crankshaft bearings, within acceptable range.
  • Rear main seal installed off-center, lubricated for assembly.
  • Pistons installed with new nuts, checked for proper turning and clearance.

36:46

Engine Assembly and Maintenance Tips

  • Special screws needed for timing cover are thin and counter sunk type
  • Full gasket sets for the engine are no longer available, requiring separate orders for head set, timing set, and oil pan
  • Silicone coating on gaskets helps seal imperfections and warpage on engine parts
  • Replacement of chewed-up key with a new one for better functionality
  • Camshaft lubricated with assembly lube before installation
  • Careful assembly of camshaft and lifter with numbering for proper reinstallation
  • Adjustment of valve clearances based on expansion rates of materials when hot
  • Cleaning and reassembly of oil pump with attention to debris like Miller bugs
  • Installation of oil pump with specific locking bolt and tube connection
  • Preparation and sealing of oil pan gasket with silicone and weather strip adhesive

55:27

"Silicone for Sealing and Oil Pump Check"

  • Apply a small amount of silicone in each corner before assembling the parts to ensure they stay in place.
  • Consider discarding the cork gasket and use silicone to seal the side cover for a better seal.
  • Use weather strip adhesive to glue the valve cover gasket to the head for easy removal during valve adjustments.
  • Spin the oil pump to check for oil pressure, aiming for around 40-45 lb.
  • Ensure proper oiling by observing the steady flow of oil and checking for any leaks before final assembly.
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