I had hopes that the two low cylinders in the engine had stuck rings and would loosen up. I could then fix the timing chain and PS pump and drive the car while I got other stuff done. Unfortunately the two low cylinders remained at 70 and 80 lbs. Also most of the plugs show a degree of oil fouling. So really the engine is toast. I’ll fix the PS pump leakages and continue to drive the car until I can change or refresh the engine.
I have a lead on a 383 stroker (just a 350 with a 400 crank and special pistons). If that doesn’t work out I also have a lead on an ’88 truck engine that can maybe provide a re-buildable block. I haven’t checked out the cost of boring the block or the cost for refreshing the heads. The cost of a mild cam, lifters, bearings and pistons is about $600. I prefer to work on an engine and when ready, swap out the existing engine. The only delay might be the time to get the heads re-done.
I have found a set of aluminum rims, nuts and centre hub caps that are not in too bad condition. I decided to get these ($800) instead of buying new centres and rings for the existing steel wheels. If I can sell the exiting wheels for $100 or a bit more then I’m not going to be out a lot and I’ll have lighter aluminum wheels. They will lower the car’s un-sprung wheel weight and so improve the ride especially over bumpy areas.
This is the worst one. It will need serious buffing and new paint on the center section.
I’ll pick up buffing wheels and compound from Amazon – local parts shops don’t carry the stuff.
A lot of the crud comes off with cleaner wax. I’ll do the back sections and everywhere else I won’t be buffing. It’s raw aluminum so it needs a wax coating to protect against corrosion.
All ready for the finishing up of the safety check – I hope – this coming Wednesday.