Refreshing a 383ci Small Bloch Chevrolet Engine

An unknown history engine was purchased, dismantled, inspected and after discovering that the main components were good the engine was rebuilt with many new parts.

Bare cylinder block

Important to inspect and clean the engine block, including all of the oil galleries and water jacket. Once happy that the foundation of the engine is good the assembly can begin.

Cylinder heads

Cylinder heads re-assembled

Combustion chambers cleaned and valves cleaned, front face and rear face, then re-assembled with new springs.

Camshaft

Camshaft re-fitted into the block with plenty of engine assembly lube. I always use a Moly based engine assembly grease. Important for first start up and cam break in.

Crankshaft

Crankshaft installed. Notice this is the stronger 4 bolt block that I always make sure I use. Again, plenty of Moly grease.

Pistons and Rods

Pistons and con rods installed with new bearings and torqued to factory specifications.

Heads, Cam followers and push rods.

Engine turned over and cylinder heads fitted along with the hydraulic cam followers and push rods. Each cam follower requires a specific pre-load, when setting.

Pistons

Brand new pistons and rings were used for this build. As this was the case it, was important to have the rotating assembly balanced. This was carried out by a specialist supplier we use.

Timing gear

New duplex performance timing gears and timing chain fitted to ensure perfect cam timing.

Front cover and harmonic balancer.

Brand new chrome front cover and performance harmonic balancer fitted along with a new ignition timing indicator

Engine sump

Mildon sump fitted with new gaskets and fasteners.

Water pump, inlet manifold and rocker covers.

Brand new water pump fitted, chrome Edelbrock Performer inlet manifold and new chrome rocker covers along with breathers and new chrome dipstick.

Distributor and Carburettor

HEI Distributor and Holley Demon carburettor fitted. A new flex plate was also fitted then the engine was loaded onto our own test rig for firing up for the first time.