Talked to my machinist today... discussed what I want for clearances on the mains and rods... I know on these motors the clearances are very crucial. He dipped the crank and said It looks real good but needs to know what I want clearance wise... I already bought std mains but no big deal to just return and get undersized. I'll be putting together a decent street motor... 69 heads stg1 valves ta413 cam, speedpro forged pistons about 10:1 comp... I plan on using a light full sythetic oil and be able to drive it on the weekends and prolly every now and then during the week... just an all around reliable street motor in the high 11's. Also are the oil mods a must at this point? I bought a stock melling oil pump and booster plate in replace of the high volume I used to run... basically if someone could point me to some numbers or an all around complete write up on the the buick oil system... I would really appreciate it. Also, are these oil mods doable by with basic tools? The dist oil mod is on my list after two gears last season but what about the mains and front cover. This is the first v8 buick the machinist has touched besides my 72 heads 4 years ago, but we have had very good service out of him with dads 3.8s. The guy is very knowledgable. listens, and does what you want at a very reasonable price. TYIA ANDY
Andy, Build it the way Buick did. From my 70 Chassis Service manual, Engine dimensions and fits. Main Bearings to Journal Clearance(limits)- .0007-.0018, End Play at thrust bearing- .003-.009 Connecting Rod bearing clearance(limits)- .0002-.0023, End Play- total for both rods-.005-.012. Oil Pump end clearance is .002
