First time engine build: Chevy 350

DjSquall

I've all the tools I need minus the engine stand. I'm an HVAC service tech by trade, I've rebuilt quite a few motors & compressors already. This isn't too far off.

For now, I want to try and reuse everything I got. Scrubbing the bolts & pushrods is a PITA! It's going to be a slow process haha.

I've already noticed a couple of the bolts have minor fatigue damage. But before I jump out and buy new ones, I want to go over everything else. ARP studs look sexy

At this rate, I may not even finish cleaning the first head this weekend. I've been at it for an hour now and my hands KILL.

Edit: I've sprayed the pistons with WD-40 so it has time to do it's magic. There was even mold inside the flooded piston -_- also, the side with the blown head gasket has filthy water jackets. Can I use CLR to soak these?

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My Z did p0rn

SouthArk370Z

Ah. If you can do HVAC work, rebuilding an engine should be pretty straightforward.

One good thing about older engines is that they are almost 100% steel/iron and can handle chemical cleaners you wouldn't dream of using on an Aluminum engine. Go to your local auto parts store and buy some Gunk (or equiv) and save yourself a lot of time and aches. Plus it will probably do a better job. If you use a water rinse, blow off parts with compressed air and then give a light coat of oil.

A small piece of wire will help clean out the inside of the push rods. If there is much junk in there, I'd replace.
If you plan on doing a performance build, I'd go ahead and replace all of them - if you rebuild the engine "right", it can handle quite a bit of abuse. But changing push rods is an easy job if you can rebuild an engine, so, if you trying to do this on the cheap, go ahead and reuse. Just make sure you check for straightness and proper length.


What do you plan on doing with the engine once you have it rebuilt? Shoehorn it into your Z?

Edit:
Vinegar might be a better alternative. Whatever you use, keep it off of machined surfaces, don't leave it on for very long (10-15 minutes at a time, and rinse VERY well when finished.
If you get the engine dipped, that should get rid of most of it. Knock off any big chunks that you can.

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