Woodfin's SS GT/TB construction series

[Dragsinger]

A super stock 327 Friday

*Photo #99 Cam installed properly

*It has been said that the 327 combo likes intake lift, photo #100 shows I have "plenty"

*Photo # 101 = T & D Rocker set mocked up for checking and pushrod fitment. Pushrod set 3/8 x .125 will be ordered from Smith brothers.

*Photo # 102 = Crower Maxi lifters .903 dia, bushing not needle bearings. [we will keep a close eye on these and report results]

I am pleased at this point, all critical dimensions and clearances are checking out as planned. A good thing.

I expect to have the engine assembled and installed shortly.

[Dragsinger]

How do you simulate head gasket thickness for mock-up and measuring when you do not have a gasket of the estimated thickness?

Easy, stack valve spring shims on a few head studs. In this case .030" shims showed me what I needed to know. [I need an .028" gasket]

Also, notice my doubled up checking springs. I have learned that in some situations the single checking spring does not have enough tension. If a valve seal is slightly snug or a valve stem has a heavy coat of thick assembly lube the checking spring may not follow the cam leading to inaccurate measurements.

The double springs assure your measurements are consistent. If you have ever had the experience of degreeing a cam and the results keep slightly changing this double spring tip may help.

[HandOverFist]

Thanks for the great tip on shims vs gasket!

[Dwight Southerland]

If you go to an old time hardware store, you can find all kinds of springs for sale and often a mfr source you can contact if you do not find what you want. I have a selection of different pressure-rate-length springs that I have used depending on conditions. As a rule, the springs provided in the various kits or sources in the hot rod industry are too weak.

[Dragsinger]

Dwight, Thanks, good tip.

[Darrin Christen]

Using just and inner spring works well also. Enjoying following your build. Thanks for taking the time to share.

[Mike Pearson]

I usually check mine without the head gasket then add back in what ever gasket thickness I am using. That way you know the head is sitting flat on the deck. I have made it a habit to check all 8 holes on an initial build too.

[Dragsinger]

Darrin,

It is fun to post and update and I enjoy hearing the positive comments.

[Dragsinger]

A good day for shinny parts

*Ring end gaps all set

*Pistons going on rods. Note installing double locks, "stretch" locks slightly and using a small blade you can work them right in. Just takes patience and care. I know about the $300.00 plus dollars install tool but I can not justify something that only takes a few mins and I already have a small screwdriver

*Rings going on pistons

*Engine going in truck very soon!!!! Yea

[Dragsinger]

I like the Cloyes front cover having installed it with several different engines. It incorporates an adjustable, needle bearing cam end play button.

It also gives the option of cam center line adjustment by removing the center cover.

With this engine I have the cam advanced as far as practical [101.5 - 102] given the intake valve to piston clearance available. With feedback from cam and cylinder head builders that is most likely where it will run best so I do not expect to change that setting.

Today four pistons were installed and the other four are ready to go in tomorrow.

Then, oil pump and pan, bolt heads on, ------