Friday, October 18, 2013
How to Remove a Timing Cover on a Small Block Chevy
Underneath the timing cover of a small-block Chevrolet engine sits the timing chain and gears. Most often this cover is removed in order to replace the timing chain, but it is also part of the disassembly when rebuilding a small Chevy V8. Though the timing cover sits on the front of the motor, it is obscured by other engine components mounted in front. To remove the timing cover, these obstacles must be removed first.
Instructions
- 1
Drain the engine coolant and engine oil. On some Chevy models, the oil pan will also need to be removed in order to take off the timing cover.
2Remove the bottom radiator hose by loosening the screw clamp with a flat screwdriver, draining the coolant into the waste bucket. The bottom hose is the one that hooks to the water pump. If the top hose and radiator are in the way, they will need to be removed as well.
3Take off the cooling fan and then remove the drive belts.
4Remove the water pump. Allow the excess fluid to drain from the block into the waste bucket.
5Remove the harmonic balancer with a harmonic balance puller. Do not pull on the edges of the harmonic balancer or it will separate the rubber from the metal housing.
6Take off any additional brackets that may be in the way.
7Disconnect the engine mounts if the engine needs to be raised in order to access the timing cover.
8Remove the bolts on the timing cover and pull the cover loose. If you did not take off the oil pan, then open the timing cover slightly and tilt it back. Cut the front oil seal off evenly with the engine. Remove the cover.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Sealing Holes in an Aluminum Engine Block
The aluminum engine block was first introduced in the 1960s in mid-sized and large cars. Their lighter weight makes them attractive to automakers. They arent, however, quite as durable as the heavier steel blocks, and over time holes may appear in the aluminum. Fortunately they can be repaired or sealed.
Instructions
- 1
Level the engine block.
2Clean the engine block with soap and water.
3Heat the engine block until it reaches 1218 degrees F.
4Apply aluminum repair material (braising rod) to the edges of the hole, heating it with an oxy-acetylene torch, then gradually build up enough material to cover the hole completely.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
How to Identify a 350 Engine Block
The Chevrolet 350 cubic-inch engine made its debut in 1967 and continues to be manufactured today as a crate engine. As one of Chevrolets longest-running and most popular engines, it is a favorite with restorers, race enthusiasts and engine builders. Identification of the 350 block requires locating and decoding the engine ID number and referring to a suffix code listing to determine the block in question. The entire process is aided by Chevrolets efficient numbering system.
Instructions
- 1
Find the Chevrolet engine ID number. According to Nasty Z28, it is found on a machined pad in front of the passenger side cylinder head. Removing the alternator may be necessary to access the number. The number consists of a four-position prefix and a three-letter suffix, V0315-CDH, for example.
2Decipher the prefix portion of the ID number. Nasty Z28 decodes the prefix as follows: the first letter, "V," represents the manufacturing location, in this case Flint, Michigan. The following four-digits are the date of manufacture, "0315," or March 15th.
3Locate the engine ID suffix on a Chevrolet code listing. Nasty Z28 and Chevy-Camaro both have extensive listings. The suffix code gives important information concerning the block, such as year of manufacture, horsepower designation, model car, etc. The Suffix "CDH" translates as a 1972 350 with 200 horsepower.
