Non running motor (SBC)

[jacob300zx]

The motor I bought for 100$ was supposedly running before someone stole the carb. Here is my plan and my questions. The 100$ motor will be used to fab up my car and then test fire and if running good will be used until it blows. At that time I will get that 300 horse gm crate for like 1400 or so. Is there is any advise you can give to me about things to do to the motor to check if it is good without tearing it apart. Like putting atf down the plug holes then using a breaker bar to spin the motor. If not I think I will just pretend like it runs good. When I go to fire it up if its a dog I'll pull it and take all the new stuff off and put it on the crate motor. Does this sound like a plan? Do you guys see any flaws. Also how hard is it to replace all the fuel lines ( time cost)?

 

Jake

[DavyZ]

...Like putting atf down the plug holes then using a breaker bar to spin the motor.

 

Just how ancient is this motor? You don't need to do that, Jake. It should be fine if it was actually running before you got it, correct?

 

I replace the timing chain as preventative maintenance & fluids too. You should be fine with the install and then fire it up.

 

Davy

[jacob300zx]

Well my friend is the one who bought it from the guy who got his carb stolen. So he was unsure about how long it has sat. Thats why I mentioned the atf.

 

Jake

[buZy]

Is there is any advise you can give to me about things to do to the motor to check if it is good without tearing it apart.

Jake

 

A static compression check would be a good idea. Or a leak down test if you have the equipment.

[jacob300zx]

Will doing the atf afect the reading on a leak down test. I think it would. Right?

 

Jake

[A. G. Olphart]

Will doing the atf afect the reading on a leak down test. I think it would. Right?

 

Jake

 

Yes, but at this point all you are doing is a rough test for cylinder balance. If all have compression within 20% or so, it will hopefully go a ways. On the other hand, if six said 150, one 25 and another 75 you'd know it needs help now. (Actual compression numbers are very dependent on cam and compression ratio, not just engine condition).

 

Good luck.

 

 

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[boodlefoof]

If it has been sitting for a very long time, you might want to oil prime it before starting it up as well.

 

AG, I like your spin on the poem. It is one of my favorites.

[Guest hiflocustom]

why waste time, which is money dicking around with a 100 dollar junk motor? Buy the crate motor and get on with it. Remember, do it once and do it right.

[dsommer]

why waste time, which is money (language check!) around with a 100 dollar junk motor? Buy the crate motor and get on with it. Remember, do it once and do it right.

 

Yeah another Arkansas guy!!! I'm in Rogers.

 

I have to agree, get the crate engine, why do the whole job twice. GET THE JTR MANUAL!!!

 

BTW Terry lives around Little Rock, might want to see if you can hook up with him for some ideas/insight.

[buZy]

Hey guys let's give it a chance. It may just run ok enough to work out the cars bugs. Swaping motors is an easy no brainer task. Getting the car to run and perform as desired is the true hard part. Your better off spending your hard earned money there first. Get the JTR manual.

Have you tried spinning the motor over by hand with the spark plugs out?

If it's seized to where you need a huge breaker bar and doesn't break free you are better off finding another motor. If it breaks loose some what easily, pull a head or two and check for bores corrosion. If inspected ok then test your static compression with oiled bores and if it's with in 20% as A.G. stated I would say you have a runner! Yea it's some work but it won't cost you much. A cheap basic auto compression tester and some gaskets that you have to buy anyways. If all works out don't forget to replace the oil pump and timing chain too. Cheap insurance. It will be cool to see what you come up with.