Tips On Short Block Assembly

[DR BOOST]

im assembling a shortblock soon and could use some tips on how to do it.

here is my buildup. .

.030 TRW pistons
.010 crank
billet center caps
resized rods
arp main studs
arp rod bolts
speed pro moly rings
speed pro 204/214 cam

i would like to know some tips on assembly and how to correctly set the thrust bearing..

thanks

surej

 

[tc86gn]

If this is your first one, let the machine shop or someone more experienced that you trust handle it. There is a lot to discuss on this issue. Too Much to type here. If you decide to do it yourself, Be maticulous and use the book (GM Manual)and all information that came with your parts.
There was a pretty good article recently in GM high tech performance covering just this topic. Check it out. You will find a lot of usefull info in it.
As for the thrust Bearing surface, you are not setting anything. Just checking to see if it is within specs. This will depend on the state of your crankshaft.
Do your homework and be maticulous and you will be rewarded!
Good luck,
TOM

 

[KWIKR 1]

you have to "set" or "square up" the two halves of the thrust cap and bearing faces before a clearance check can be made . This is done by bumping or prying the crank full travel both ways in the block with the main caps just snug . This will square it to the crank thrust face. then caps can be torqued and crank thrust checked with a feeler guage or dial indicator . If this is not done you may get inaccurate clearance readings by a out of square or uneven thrust bearing face . This is sometimes better done without the rear seal in place . .

 

[HellOnWheels]

Tips short block assembly

Dr Boost,

Per ARP, cycle fastners at least 5 times before doing final torque.

HellOnWheels

 

[DR BOOST]

thanks guys...i was told that i have to snug up the main caps and give it two hard whacks in either direction with a hammer. then check the end play..min. being.004. thanks

surej