denny,
i am not looking for the "heavy duty" aspect for the rebuild. i was just curious if there was any advantage to switching to the aluminum while the engine was apart.
you know my truck and the history. had the pleasure of watching it turn over the 100,000 mile mark with my mom (the daughter of the original owner) sitting on the passenger side.
i have absolutely no problem with the 216 or the power it produces and just like you, i am going to keep this truck original (to a fault), including retaining the babbit bearings if they are still in good condition.
patrick's recommended bob bailey in mesa, az, and as it turns out, he is about 10 minutes from my house.
a very good, retired motorcycle mechanic friend of mine has had several engines rebuilt by bob and has been very happy with the results. after meeting bob last weekend, i think he is the guy to handle the rebuild. old, cranky, and has forgotten more than i will ever remember...just need to find a way to pay for the repairs.
truckernix,
thanks for your reply. my experience sounds similar to yours. the truck hummed along for me on a daily basis and then one day...
makes ya want to puke when it happens.
i love this truck and it will be back on the road. even if i have to sell my soul to the devil.
