Complete Rebuild Virgin, need machine shop advice.
Thread Starter
Teching In
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 9
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Complete Rebuild Virgin, need machine shop advice. Engine is out of a '94 Formula Firebird. Unknown mileage, but it definitely looks rough on the outside. I'm going to rebuild this motor for my Pro-Tour '78 Type LT project. I've always done most of my mechanic work, but have never done a total rebuild. I'm looking for advice on sending a short-block to a machine shop. What machining operations are "normal" for a mild street engine rebuild? I figure on getting the block hot-tanked, bored .030" over, and honed. The heads will be hot-tanked and decked. What about balancing? What about the rods? Can the old ones be re-used? I know it's a lot of questions, but I've never even dealt with a machine shop and would like an idea as to what I should ask for in an "average" short-block reconditioning. Another thing to consider is my budget. What should I expect to outlay for the above services?
Thread Starter
Teching In
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
So I can re-use the rods and crank. Get the block cleaned, bored and honed. Get the heads cleaned and decked. Am I missing anything? What should I do about the valves? And should the rotating assembly be balanced? Like I've said above, I've never dealt with a machine shop and I don't want to go crazy with the machining process when all I'm looking to build is a mild street engine. Thanks for the input guys.
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Originally Posted by 78LT
Ed, I appreciate you trying to help. It does seem like most of the good machine shops have gone "race engine" only. The machine shops that will look at my mild street engine are a little shady... 
http://www.selfracing.com
Good luck, Ed
