ENGINE TEAR DOWN COMPLETE

The block is shown here with all internal components removed. The heads and the block will be sent to a machine shop next week for inspection and refurbishment.

The plan is to rebuild the engine to 1968 “RB” 440 CID specifications which means 4 barrel carburetor, special cam (versus standard cam used in “LB” 383 CID engines) and pistons that will produce a 10.1 to 1 compression ratio. Installing a new cam requires that we also install new valve lifters and valve springs. Other engine components we’ll need to replace include the pistons, piston rings; crank shaft bolts, oil, fuel and water pumps, timing chain set, carburetor and electronic ignition system. We’ll also need new hoses, belts, spark plug wires, coil, spark plugs plus other miscellaneous parts.

Work to recondition the various engine belt pulleys, mounting brackets and other miscellaneous parts will also start next week.