First time engine build: Chevy 350

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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