And so it begins.............

[turbofabricator]

After way too many projects, I am now starting the build of Jay's engine. I will still be juggling the build with a few projects, but here is proof of the start. This is the link to how it began: http://www.turbobuick.com/threads/with-your-help-the-dream-continues.427565/

Block is prepped less cam bearings, now crank needs final clean, and rods hung, then file fit rings and assembly begins. I will try to take detailed pics. Although I tend to get tunnel vision and forget to pause for an engine "selfie".

Jay, sorry for the delay, hope this all comes together for you soon. To those of you who donated parts, I thank you. I think I have everything to assemble this. (Except rod and main bearings. The set I had set aside were used in an emergency repair for a friend recently, so after cleaning crank I will measure and order them)
It's cool folks stepped up and donated ported heads, ported intake, roller cam, gaskets, timing cover, etc. Thanks again guys!!! Great group of folks, here!!!

 

[boosted-para]

I can't thank everyone enough! This is awesome and I can't wait to see it complete and enjoy it for many years to come! Thank you all again

 

[Nasty Wendy]

Awesome!!

 

[turbofabricator]

Update: Waiting on main bearings that Jegs says are shipped. Rod bearings showed up, but not the mains. When they do, the party begins.

 

[turbofabricator]

Still waiting on main bearings. (PN MS1747P20) and Jegs says "Delivered". I have the rod bearings in hand from the same invoice, but no main bearings. Called Jegs this afternoon and they will call me back on Tuesday when they hear from Clevite as to what happened. I have always had good luck from Jegs. Hopefully this luck will continue. Everyone has a bad day. If this fizzles, I might need help from folks deciphering the King Bearing website. They make the bearing I need, but dang.........their website is hard to figure out. I need a main set that is .020" undersize with a .010" thrust flange oversize. (Thrust surface was machined .010"). It use to be no problem to get these bearings. Now days, unless you are building an LS or Honda V-tec you are out of luck.
I use to manage an auto parts store back in the early '80's and we stocked everything from VW pistons to Detroit diesel overhaul kits in multiple oversizes. Sad.
Sorry Jay, I'm doing the best I can...............

 

[boosted-para]

Hang in there Ken. They say good things come to those who wait! I have been busy with school and family as well. Maybe this is my Eleanor? Lol

 

[turbofabricator]

All parts are here. Assembly begins:

 

[turbofabricator]

More....

 

[turbofabricator]

More.....and my inspector.........Sassysquatch. Toy Aussie

 

[turbofabricator]

Back to the shop to continue........

 

[turbofabricator]

Crank rods pistons now installed. This block has main cap girdles that were made by one of the smartest machinists I have ever met. Dale Robertson. (BadassL). (RIP Dale). Wish he was still alive, we would stay up all night talking camshaft theory. He was always two steps ahead of me on anything involving engine development.

 

[turbofabricator]

More pics

 

[turbofabricator]

More:

 

[TurboBuRick]

Interesting cap girdles. Never seen those before. Looking good.

 

[turbofabricator]

Old school, before steel main caps were available. Common practice years ago, though. The best part is it only requires a line hone and not a line bore. No leaky full girdle. (Which I run on my car)

 

[turbofabricator]

One part I need help on is a set of valve covers or spacers for roller rockers. Can anyone help out? Please.

 

[turbofabricator]

I think I have the valve covers covered. Thanks Dennis.

 

[texasmr2]

One part I need help on is a set of valve covers or spacers for roller rockers. Can anyone help out? Please.

Ken,
I would like to step up and help with the spacers, can you supply me with the part # and manufacturer and cost? If they are not to expensive I would love to help. I'm still getting back on my feet after being unemployed for over 1yr but would love to help in some way for a great cause. I would not be able to purchase them until next Friday though if that is ok.

Gregg

 

[turbofabricator]

Gregg, thanks, bud, but I have a set of valve covers local to me, and from a guy that I have been friends with for 28+ years. Nice to see your support. I took this on because folks end up in frustrating places, and I can still build an engine. Not sure how much longer I will keep this up, though. I would really like to retire from car stuff. I've been at it since 1976. Put a fork in me.......I'm done!

 

[texasmr2]

I was referring to the spacers for the roller rocker set up, sorry for my lack of clarity, let me know.