I'm thinking about starting to build a budget 355. I was going to just start piecing it together buying a used block, heads, intake, etc. I was also planning on the forged kit from Summit as well. I want to build a motor so I can still drive the car in the meantime.

Worries - I'm worried about the details such as the power steering pump, alternater brackets, etc. What does everyone do here about all the accessories? Use the old ones when you finally pull the old motor? Or do you buy new (used) stuff? If new, what about all the different bolts? Where to get? The basic block, heads, and intake is straight forward to me, but the rest of the stuff has me worried. Any help would be great! I want to know how everyone else tackles this job with the least amount of downtime during the swap, a week at the most.

 

most of us reuse the accessories.

Ummm its unlikely to get it done in a week. Take block out is about 5 hours if someone helps u and neither of u have done it before. Then a couple hours taking off the heads / intake , then taking the block to the machine shop and waiting for them to clear everything / clean it / balance it , then build it up put it back in the car.. etc.. putting it back together takes longer than taking it down and apart.

 

I'm going to build another engine, then sell my old one. So, the swap shouldn't take too long.

 

if they were working before they should be working fine after the swap. The opti would be the only thing I would really look at acording to the miles on it. maybe a rebuild while you have it off.

 

Does ARP have a complete fastener kit?

 

reuse all the original bolts if they are worthy (except for obvious stuff like head bolts, etc). I would most definitely reuse all the old accessories, except probably the water pump and optispark. Also might be a good time to change O2 sensors, plugs, wires, thermostat, and a cam if your bored

Since you already have an engine sitting there, there is no reason this couldn't be accomplished over a weekend with one or two buddies for help. stuff to not forget:

cherry picker/engine hoist (unless your Arnold Schwarzeneggers cousin or something)

labeling system for all bolts/wires/hoses - you want to label EVERYTHING that came off the engine, or you will have a helluva time getting it back together. I reccomend masking tape thats easy to write on for the hoses, and lots of baggies for the bolts. Make sure to put corresponding labels on the engine part they came off of!

oil/filter/antifreeze - you'd be surprised how many people forget this one

can of PB Blaster - best stuff ever invented. spray this on your engine bolts the night before you start (ESPECIALLY the exhaust!!) and let it sit. Come in the next day and twist the bolts off with your fingers (ok not really, but its awesome stuff)

new gaskets for intake/exhaust

thats all I can think of at the moment...

 

I have a question? Where can you get that PB blaster stuff at? Sorry to chime in.

 

PB Blaster is available at any auto parts store. Its the best. WD- 40 doesnt even compare

 

Just reuse your accessories.

There is no ARP bolt "kit" that I know of.

Nor is there a complete gasket kit. Well there is one from TFS, I think it runs like $318!

You can also get them from Combo Motorsports, Thunder Racing. You might end up with a couple duplicates.

Or, get the list of gaskets togother you need and get ahold of Dal or Jason.

At least get new head bolts & rod bolts.