Got the new engine build in the BRAT and before compleing it I confirmed that the previous failure was from a spun bearing. The damage to the bearing did not indicate overheating or overloading, it looks like the damage was done by coolant when the head gasket went.

 

I also went with the new cam grind and she needs to idle at about 900 to be happy. Power delivery is now much more broad without loss of the low end, it pulls hard to about 6 grand and from 6 to 7 it tapers off a bit, I set the redline at 7,500 after running at 8 with no perceptable valve float. The springs are from a Vega Cosworth and are just fantastic.

 

Here is the DUMB part.

 

I filled the engine with 5 quarts oil and installed it. Then once in the truck I filled it with 5 quarts oil and coolant per usual. Things just seemed strange on start up so I started to wonder. Pulling the dipstick revealed oil close to the neck of the fill tube. So I drained 5 quarts and went on about business.

It should be well lubed.

sweet man, good to hear you get it going, sounds like a lil beast, and you wont have to worry about it not having enough oil on the bearings. lol good job though.

At least you didn't forget to put oil in it at all...or fill it with the drain plug still out...er...not that I would have any personal experience with anything like that;)

-Louis-

'91 Loyale 4wd 5spd Wagon