Opinions on Crank work
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Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 64
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From: austin tx
Opinions on Crank work
I threw out a Piston Rod Bearing on my 78 so I've started the rebuild. The first question is should I have the machine shop rework my Crank or should I do a swap out? The cost is almost the same I'm just not sure what I will get in return (i.e. will it be as strong as the one that came with the motor?).
My friend and I are doing the work so I'm trying to get a lot of small stuff done while the patient is open. Below are the items I'm addressing so if you see any additional things I should consider please let me know. I would like to do some performance mods but that will have to wait.
Rework Crank
Piston Rod Bearings
Main Bearings
Piston Rings
Double Roller Timing Chain
High Flow Oil Pump
Motor Mounts
Trans Mount
Thanks in advance.
My friend and I are doing the work so I'm trying to get a lot of small stuff done while the patient is open. Below are the items I'm addressing so if you see any additional things I should consider please let me know. I would like to do some performance mods but that will have to wait.
Rework Crank
Piston Rod Bearings
Main Bearings
Piston Rings
Double Roller Timing Chain
High Flow Oil Pump
Motor Mounts
Trans Mount
Thanks in advance.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 6,130
Likes: 2
From: seattle WA
Re: Opinions on Crank work (grp)
Depends on how much damage. :rolleyes: Cranks as long as they get the proper lubrication can really take alot of pounding.Personally-I'd say ok to ten under, beyond that I'd say get another crank. And make sure you put in a all metal timing gear. :) :seeya
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 11,322
Likes: 1
From: Living in the Hartland
Re: Opinions on Crank work (grp)
You might consider just getting a whole eng kit that has a balanced rotating assembly, step up to a stroker for more torq, a balanced stoker kit can be had for $900 or less if you search the net.
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Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 64
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From: austin tx
Re: Opinions on Crank work (grp)
One more thing. I'm leaning towards replacing the stock cam during this. Here is a little info if needed to form your opinion.
L82 3 spd
Stock heads for now but if I change them I will get VFR heads.
Edelbrock Intake
Holley 650cfm
L82 3 spd
Stock heads for now but if I change them I will get VFR heads.
Edelbrock Intake
Holley 650cfm
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 1999
Posts: 6,134
Likes: 46
From: Raleigh North Carolina
Re: Opinions on Crank work (grp)
If you pulled the cam.... cam bearings (but requires a tool either home built or commercial).
IF you mess with the cam....
Don't drag the cam across the cam bearing surfaces when removing or installing the cam.
Most common newbie mistake.
The bearings are very soft material.
It's tough to remove/install a cam without dragging at least one lobe across a bearing unless you are careful.
I prefer to stand the block on end and drop the cam in slowly.
Otherwise just be careful.
If the cam bearings are worn (or damaged by Bubba), you will have low oil pressure.
IF you mess with the cam....
Don't drag the cam across the cam bearing surfaces when removing or installing the cam.
Most common newbie mistake.
The bearings are very soft material.
It's tough to remove/install a cam without dragging at least one lobe across a bearing unless you are careful.
I prefer to stand the block on end and drop the cam in slowly.
Otherwise just be careful.
If the cam bearings are worn (or damaged by Bubba), you will have low oil pressure.
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Thread Starter
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Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 64
Likes: 0
From: austin tx
Re: Opinions on Crank work (Twin_Turbo)
Thanks for the additional info. I'm reading through the archives now to review opinions on which Cam to buy. Most seem to lean towards Comp and a few mention Crane.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 7,098
Likes: 378
From: Las Vegas - Just stop perpetuating myths please.
Re: Opinions on Crank work (grp)
Just came back from the machine shop and they said I should definately rework this Crank because it's steel. Do all 78s come with a steel crank?
I just got my new Jeg's catalog here and brand spank'n new 350 or 383" forged cranks go for $285. Whole rotating assembly with new crank+rods+pistons+rings+bearings and 8.9 cr (with 76cc stock heads) for only $700.
Good luck and happy hunting. :chevy