Engine work/rebuild/mod Book Recommendations?
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,455
Likes: 2
From: East TN
Engine work/rebuild/mod Book Recommendations?
Can anyone recommend a book or two that would help me understand how to do work on an engine? For example I have no idea how to install roller rockers on my LT1. Im sure its not that hard, or maybe it is, but I have no idea where to start. I feel comfortable replacing or working on just about anything but the engine, so any good books preferably geared toward a vette would help 
Last edited by dan6712cc; Jan 23, 2005 at 03:36 AM.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 40,156
Likes: 45
From: San Pedro CA
first off, get a Helms Manual - www.helminc.com - They publish the factory service manual.
You may want to check out John Lingenfelters book on building a small block.
You may want to check out John Lingenfelters book on building a small block.
Team Owner
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 90,675
Likes: 304
From: SE NY
Cruise-In II Veteran
For any kind of work on your Vette get a copy of the GM Shop Manual from HELMS. This will be you base information source on your engine and the rest of your car.
When you are ready to build a 383 you can pick up additional literature that has details on engine building.
BTW, installing RRs in indeed not difficult, when you have the shop manual as your first line of reference.
When you are ready to build a 383 you can pick up additional literature that has details on engine building.
BTW, installing RRs in indeed not difficult, when you have the shop manual as your first line of reference.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,183
Likes: 3
From: Santa Maria, CA
I agree with Andy on the Lingenfelter book. It is very good.
Basic engine assembly can also be found in some of the HP brand books. Like "how to hot rod small block chevrolets".
You will love the roller rockers and not a difficult job at all.
On paper it seems hairy, but it's not once you get in there.
Basic engine assembly can also be found in some of the HP brand books. Like "how to hot rod small block chevrolets".
You will love the roller rockers and not a difficult job at all.
On paper it seems hairy, but it's not once you get in there.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 5,107
Likes: 171
From: Dublin CA
Yes 
with above!
1) Get a good set of tools if you don't have them now.
2) Don't ever rely on memory....take picture of the before, draw diagrams, label everything, put things in bags and take notes and TAKE YOUR TIME.
3) You can do almost everything except machining. Talk to others that have done these things before, or if you have a good friends that have done these things before - rely on them. But be sure that even with a friend helping do 2)!!!!
What might take an experienced mechanic 1 hour might take you 3. But if you have the time, you will save yourself big dollars in the long run and have a better understanding of your engine and the satisfaction of doing it yourself. There will be times of frustration, but learn from these times. GOOD LUCK!
with above!1) Get a good set of tools if you don't have them now.
2) Don't ever rely on memory....take picture of the before, draw diagrams, label everything, put things in bags and take notes and TAKE YOUR TIME.
3) You can do almost everything except machining. Talk to others that have done these things before, or if you have a good friends that have done these things before - rely on them. But be sure that even with a friend helping do 2)!!!!
What might take an experienced mechanic 1 hour might take you 3. But if you have the time, you will save yourself big dollars in the long run and have a better understanding of your engine and the satisfaction of doing it yourself. There will be times of frustration, but learn from these times. GOOD LUCK!
