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11/03/20: With my engine block and head finally back from the machine shop, I started reassembling. In the process of butting up the lower end and found that one of the rod cap stud and nut was hitting the oil pump. The engine was previously rebuilt by a “not so reputable” shop that mixed up the rod location and ground one of the nuts for apparent oil pump clearance. My shop placed the rods in their proper sequence so now the problem.

Where the rod was hitting the oil pump, the pump had ample material that I was able to grind away enough cast iron so the rod had ample clearance. I believe that was a much better solution than grinding on the rod cap stud and nut.

With that issue solved, I completed reassembly of the engine to the point where it will to be painted. Unfortunately, we have been under a cold spell with temps below freezing for a few days now. The weather forecasts warmer temperatures reaching sixty in the next few days so between the weather and my propane heater, I should have an opportunity to get the engine painted.

I waiting for the rest of the parts to come in for the rear brakes, so that will be next on my list. I am anxious to get the wheels back on so I can install the engine and tranny. The weather here is turning fast, as we have already had snow. It didn’t last but a day, but its only getting colder and a substantial snow is eminent. Getting the truck back in the garage is my top priority.