The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 235 full pressure rebuild?

Perty soon...my motor is gonna be dropped off to get rebuilt by a local engine builder/machine shop near my house. This guy is good and thankfully, he has done quite a few 235's in the past with success. I've never had a engine rebuilt before so this is my first time. Are their any questions or details I should ask him before he starts on the motor? He's by no means a con artist or a scammer, very honest, so I know he'll shoot me straight with anything that'll come up. I just want to prepare myself for anything beyond the usual obvious questions before we start this thing. Also, is it a good idea to rebuild the engine now, even though the truck won't be ready for it? I guess my main concern is that I'm afraid things on or in the engine may dry out. Or, am I just overly concerned for nothing?

Thanks...

I just got mine back yesterday from a local mechanic who does a lot of work on vintage Chevrolets. Mine won't be ready to install/run for about a year. My deal with him is that he will be the one to start it for the first time. That way, if there's a problem, it's on him. He's aware of my situation and has prepped the engine for a year of storage.

Just be sure he's aware of your situation and if he's an honest guy he'll treat you right.

When I took my 1960 235 to my engine builder I made it a point to specify in writing in a portfolio exactly what I wanted in the end. We discussed the cam grind, my trans/OD gearing as well as the R&P ratio and tire height. Before he touched the block we had established what was to be done. I also included some articles with pictures and details for drilling the block for a full-flow filter system, drilling the crank for a SBC bolt, and modifying the timing cover bottom bolts. I also pointed out that the cam gear installation required heating the gear and cooling the cam and he made it a point to get it correctly installed. He was quite adament about a full rotational balance which I would highly recommend. The total cost for the additional machine work I requested was $60.00, excluding the balance.

I made 3 trips to his shop, one to deliver the engine, the second at his request, to inspect the choice of replacement parts, and the third to pick up the completed engine. We established a time of one month as the build and assembly time as he was swamped with diesel rebuilds and worked on my engine as time permitted.

I've just turned 4800 flawless miles since the rebuild and am totally satisfied with his work. He requested that he be able to keep the portfolio with specific details as he has had requests for additional 235 rebuilds.

If there was one thing I would stress you discuss with your builder, it's the proper cam gear install. If he's familiar with the procedure it will let him know YOU'VE done your homework...if not it will insure it is done properly and you won't have to make any major repairs down the road.

I'd mention to him that you were going to put the engine in storage and get his recommendations.


Dave

What Dave sez.