JHanko

Piston rings filed to correct gap...

Installing pistons...

All pistons installed. Rods checked for bearing clearance and side clearance...

Head gaskets sprayed with copper...

Beautiful combustion chamber and port work...

Heads torqued down. Starting to look like a motor. Measuring for push rods next...

My 68 Firebird is receiving some significant upgrades this spring, including a fuel injected 535, 4L80E trans, PTC 3500 stall triple disc converter and 12 bolt 3.55 Eaton rear end. The car is already beautifully restored and should be really special when finished. Here she is right now...

Block all cleaned up and ready to assemble...

Installing cam bearings...

Camshaft and main bearings installed...

Crankshaft checked for straightness, main bearing clearance and end play. .009" end play seemed a little big to me, but Butler confirmed it is OK.

Rear seal installed and main caps torqued down...

Pistons and rods weight matched...

I degree'd the cam with only cylinder #1 piston installed without rings. I find it much easier this way. When installed straight up, the intake center line is at 112.75 degrees. Cam card says it should be 114. I guess I'll leave it as is and let chain stretch get it closer...

The day she came home...

I'm in! 1968 Firebird 400. All original (for now). Getting a fuel injected Butler 535, 4L80E, PTC triple disc and Moser 12 bolt this spring. Should be a great summer!

Oh, add new hood hinges to the list...

I am the owner of a beautiful 68 Firebird that is going through a complete change this spring. Right now I overloaded with work, building a 535 with fuel injection. Also installing a well built 4L80E and a 12 bolt Moser rear end with Eaton 3.55  LSD. I look forward to sharing my build and meeting new people with similar interests.