labrat

I noticed on one of the heads the valve looked recessed about 1/4 in into its seat. Is this just because the cam is not there to offset the valve spring, or is there something wrong with the head? Or is the valve possibly too small? I've never seen anything like this. Sorry about all the questions at once, but i'm elbow deep here and have to get this thing back together. Thanks for the help! Bill I'm on my way!

Thanks for the info, kevin, but i think i will take the cheap way and plastigage it. I got the crank out today, and didn't notice any discolorations and the pistons cleaned up really well. There are a couple of scratches on the crank journals, but barely big enough to feel with a fingernail. Will this case a problem? Should i have the crank machined? I started out just freshening up a running engine, but now it's gone way beyond that... Bill

What is the most accurate way to measure main bearing clearance? i've heard some people say that plastigage is not very accurate. Also, while i have the oilpan off and it's on a stand, is there anything i need to look for as far as indicators of wear? I know it was rebuilt (the rods are stamped w/cylinder number), but not how long ago. Thanks for all the input! Bill

well, i just measured the valves, and the intakes are definitely under two inches. I assume measuring broad across the face... bill

Pulled the manifolds and heads today, pistons have STD stamped in the top, and there is no ring groove at the top of the cylinders, so i am hoping this is a good thing. Have to figure out a way to get the motor off of jackstands and onto my new engine stand before i can open up the bottom end. Bill by the way, should there be evidence of crosshatching on the cylinder walls? Mine are very very smooth... [ April 30, 2001: Message edited by: labrat ]

I've looked up this head casting number off my 66 327, but all it tells me is that they are off of a 66 327. Anyone have any info on them? The number is 3782461 then second line J195. Any info or links would be appreciated! Thanks! Bill

Yeah, i was afraid of that. Oh well. Thanks for the input! Bill

Okay, here's the deal. I have a 1966 327 and i want to "freshen" it up a bit with rings and bearings. My question is, how can i tell if the previous rebuild used oversized rings and/or bearings? Is it stamped on the part anywhere? Or do i have to dig out my micrometer? Any input would be appreciated! Keep up the good work, and this forum rocks!!! Bill

When getting a driveshaft fabricated, how much slack should i leave in the splines on the tranny end when I measure the length from u-joint to u-joint? I don't think it should go flush, or is that just for vehicles with solid rear axles? Thanks...

Is there anyone out there finished wiht their JTR manual and looking to get rid of it? I kinda need one...

thanks guys, appreciate the input

I finally got my 81 280 ZX to pass the state inspection here in Collin county. (That's north of dallas). There was no emissions inspection whatsoever (which i was dreading) all they did was open the hood to verify my intake was hooked up properly and that my brakes weren't leaking from the master. I asked about the engine swap (I'm still runnin 6) and they said that there is no restriction on engines in this county, and no emmissions tests at all, and that my 1966 327 sbc would still be legal, as long as everything was hooked up properly. Can anyone verify this for me? I don't really trust the dude at jiffy lube, but then again, he does this for a living.... Any input is gratefully appreciated btw, i have a th350 now, but would anyone recommend a better tranny that is fairly common and can be had for not too much $$$? maybe 5sp from a truck? I have a manual tranny now, and i'm not afraid to shift gears... Thanks again

Yeah, i have thought about that. I haven't really checked into local laws, but i was under the impression that as long as it will pass the emmissions standard for the county, i was okay. If anyone knows anything about how this works in texas, feedback is appreciated...

Alright, i'm almost at the point of no return... I managed to pick up a rebuilt (30k or so) 327 from a '66 caprice with a turbo 350 tranny and a good long chevy driveshaft. Any other parts i might need? (major things) These are all to go into a 1981 280ZX non-turbo. I spun the crank pulley and ate up the crank, so this is better than rebuilding the L28. I know i will need a radiator and electric fan, but what is the best way to convert the other accessories, mostly the power steering pump and the AC compressor. Any advise would be greatly appreciated!