I purchased my vette conv new in 72 (base engine) and decided it was time for a re-build two years ago. I selected "Performance Unlimited" in Norfolk VA. to do the work. Long story shortened for space - after pulling the engine three times and returning it to PU with a total of less than 1500 miles - and many suggestions and helpful information from the forum I decided enough was enough and took it to a local (Yorktown VA) mechanic to see what the problem was. It turned out that PU had the ring gaps aligned thus my smoking problem - no hash marks visible in the cylinders - bore took hours to straighen out with CK 10 - no crush factor on the bearings - a balance job that entailed shaving the rod caps down to practically nothing (balance as one vice individual components) and no pushrod guide plates, in the words of the machine shop foreman a basic screw job.

Just a piece of advice for novice mechanics like myself - get as much information and advice from the professionals on the forum as possible before selecting someone to rebuild your pride and joy.

Again thanks to all of the forum members who helped steer me in the right direction over the past couple of years with my nightmare re-build.

PS Beware of Performance Unlimited in Norfolk VA
thanks
t2

 

Word of advice from the "old school" go to a local circle track bullring and watch a race to see which machine shop's motors hold up in the races and bring home the "bacon". Circle track racing will seperate the "drag shops" from the "winners circle shops" rather quickly! Racers will LOVE to have you give their engine guy business for all the demands they put on them during the racing season. RIGHT NOW is the time to head to a shop with your work, during the Spring/Summer is the time to attend the races and do your research! The shop should have pictures of shiny race cars with "thankyou" notes on them in the lobby, THE BEST advertising you can find!