Engine rebuild, what should I change?

[DanMan2k06]

I'll say right off the bat. I'm NOT going to build a stroker, so don't even start suggesting it

However, I am doing a complete rebuild/blueprint for a class project. Is there anything I should replace/change while I have it torn apart? Aftermarket cam gear/chain or upgraded rockers, lighter connecting rods, stuff like that? I'm pretty new to everything internal but definitely open to ideas.

 

[Talyn]

Not much in the way of lighter connecting rods. Just polish, shot peen, install arp rod bolts and resize yours.

You didn't state how many miles, but I'll assume its high mileage.

I would replace the cam, lifters and timing chain. Test the valve springs, and check the rockers for wear. New pistons and rings with an over bore. You will probably have to turn the crank shaft. 3 angle valve job on the head, mill for flatness, back cut valves. You could also do a quick port and polish along with intake matching. Balance the pistons, rods and crank.

There will be a lot of time in the port and polish and the rod work.

 

[DanMan2k06]

90,000 miles. It was a buddies that he wrecked. '96 HO, but will be going back into my 99.

I'm anticipating a lot of headwork. It's probably going to get sent out to be decked, and I'm planning on just buying new valve springs. What pistons would you recommend? Those KB's in your stroker thread looked absolutely beautiful.

Any opinions on roller rockers? I know Yella Terra and Mopar both make sets, but haven't seen too many reviews of them.

 

[Talyn]

With only 90,000 miles you may want to consider keeping the lifters and cam. Just keep them in order so the lifter goes back on the same cam lobe.

The KBs are for a stroker only using the 4.0L rod. The piston would be too far down in the hole used on a 4.0L. You could use them, but you would need a custom rod. Not worth the effort. You could also go with a custom piston, but again, not worth it for a 4.0L. Just get a good hyperutetic(sp) piston.

I have a set of Harland Sharp adjustable lockers. I like them because they are adjustable, allow me me to set exact preload, are stronger, reduce valve stem wear, and reduce the temperature of the head. As for power increase there may be some, but I don't know. You will however need either valve cover spacer and t-stat spacer or a taller valve cover to use adjustable. You can fit a set of Yella Terra non adjustable under the stock cover. I do prefer the design of the Yella Terras over Harlands, but its not easy getting a set of adjustable YTs here and support is less than stellar. I've used botht he YT non adjustable and the HS adjustables. I don't think Mopar produces their rockers any longer, even if they did I have seen a few broken rockers from them.

 

[DanMan2k06]

My friend suggesting buying everything from Manchini Racing, looks like a pretty good site. Lots of OEM stuff, and pretty decent prices.

Talyn what are the benefits of having a dual sprocket cam gear/chain? Simply less rolling resistance or is there more to it? They have some for pretty cheap.

 

[Dragonslayer]

Fel-Pro revised design Rear Main Seal, valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket.

Melling oil pump (standard, or high volume).

A mild port job on the head wouldn't be too difficult to do, either.

 

[MaxxTraxx]

I'd do port matching/polish and a more aggressive cam. I've heard rumors of an aluminum head but never seen one.

 

[DanMan2k06]

I know Hesco makes (or did at one point) an aluminum head, but that's probably way more money than I want to spend. Definitely considering a cam. But with the stock stroke, what would you guys suggest?


Edit. Just found the Hesco head on their site for 2 grand. Screw that noise...

 

[DanMan2k06]

Well I got the motor down to school and threw it on a stand. Pulled the valve cover and oil pan. It's pretty dirty, but nothing horrendous. No holes in pistons or pieces falling out upon inspection. A good sign. I have absolutely no info on this motor. No mileage, no idea when it ran last. All I know is it turns over and it came out of a '99 lol. There was no body damage, And it wasn't a cash for clunkers, so I have a slight hunch it might have a blown head gasket or something of that nature.

The cam also looks wiped. Not too bad, but definitely tired and in need of replacement. I want to try and get one with a little more top end power, but don't really know how to relate that to the choices that are on the market these days. Any advice?