myc3

Over the winter I completed the assembly of my 406 long block and I intended to install it in my 77 L48 this spring. I have just been told that I will be deployed for at least 6-9 months so my spring project is on hold.

How can I prepare the long block so that storage for at least 9 months will not cause problems. It is fully assembled (block,rotating assembly, heads, intake, rockers, valve covers, fuel pump, water pump etc...) except for the carburetor and the distributor.

Thanks

Durango_Boy

I have a very humid garage, so when I am storing an engine I do a few things to prevent rust buildup.

Is the engine painted? Any bare metal surfaces should be coated with a spray oil of some kind to prevent rust.

First, I squirt some oil into the cylinders and install the spark plugs. Next, cover all openings with tape or plastic to keep moisture out, rodents out, and dust out.

Next, I wrap some rice up in paper towels, bound by rubber bands, and set a few on the engine, and wrap the whole thing in plastic right on the engine stand.

Then, when it's unwrapped, it should be just as it was the day you stored it.

myc3

Thanks for the prompt reply. Yes the engine is painted.

So really all I need to do is squirt some oil down the plug holes in the head, seal the openings and wrap in plastic?

I like the idea with the rice. I assume this acts as a moisture absorbent.

Durango_Boy

Yep, it's cheap, easy to get, and works VERY well at absorbing any moisture in the bag while it's stored.