Mk4 #7750 Build Progress Update

[edwardb]

So, moving on, once that was over commenced with starting engine assembly. While I’ve had time over the past couple of days, first installed the harmonic balancer and then used a dial indicator to get TDC on #1 piston and set the timing pointer to zero:



Then prepared for head installation. The Dart block uses 1/2 studs, so installed those, the head gaskets, and dropped the heads on. The Dart block has all blind holes, so no sealer needed for the lower row. Nice. Lubed the stud threads, nuts and washers with ARP assembly lube:



Then out with the torque wrench and stepped through the tightening sequence in three steps, finishing at the prescribed 110 foot pounds. Times 20 that was plenty of pulling for me.



Then setup to get the pushrod length determined. Used #2 cylinder since I still had the checker springs in #1. (More about that later) Used the solid lifter and a checking pushrod, and after a few tries had nicely centered marks. Pushrods came out to be 6.450. Coincidentally (or maybe not) exactly the same size as on my 306.