Hi Guys,

It has been a while since I was checking in here. A lot of traveling and vacation!!! :-) 1 month surfing in Indonesia. So it´s just the perfect time here in Sweden to start with the work during this time of the year. Right now its rainy, dark and bitter.

You guys that might remember I brought my Nova with me when moving back to Sweden from San Diego. So the car is rust free, I am trying to keep it that way :-)

I am getting the engine out for a overhaul. New heads, cam, lifters, intake, headers, fuelpump yada yada yada. I am hoping to keep the bottom end intact, if possible.
I am also ripping apart the subframe, and sending it of for blasting and powder coating. Then just a overhaul of the rest of the stuff in the front end.

Anyways on to the pics.

Before:
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/IMG_3876_1_small.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010727Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010729Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010749Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010758Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010760Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010765Medium.jpg

I will try to update as soon as there is progress. (and with some more pics)

Some more pics of the garage and the car.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010670Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010671Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010675Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010676Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010677Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010679Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010681Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010717Medium.jpg

If I had a garage that size, all would be right in the world!!!!!!! You have some fun stuff my friend. I am also totally jealous of the Indo trip. Some guys have all the luck...Jackel

So Magnus did you win the lottery or something. Awesome shop and toys.

Well I wish it was that good! This is a shared garage, it´s only the Nova that is mine But it is a really nice shop, we share a lot of tools, knowledge and help each other out. And off course the occasional beer drinking.. + lying about life ;-)

I will post some more info on what stuff is going on the front end. All comments are welcome.

http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/edl-60459_w.jpg
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-60459/

http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/edl-7561.jpg
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-7561/

http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/edl-7162_w.jpg
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-7162/

http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/edl-7810_w.jpg
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-7810/

http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/edl-8564.jpg
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-8564/

http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/edl-7363_w.jpg
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-7363/

http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/edl-8551.jpg
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-8551/

http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/cca-1320-16_w.jpg
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/CCA-1320-16/

http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/ens-3-3101g_w.jpg
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/ENS-3-3101G/

http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/prod/large/sum-g1401.jpg
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/SUM-G1401/

This is some of the stuff that is laying in the garage now. Still need more stuff like fuelpump, pushrods, some gaskets, new carb? (efi with megasquirt maybe) etc.

I was wondering about the Rochester QuadraJet to Holley square bore adapter plate you showed.

Twelve point fasteners look better than the regular hex head but I recommend hex heads for ease in getting a good torque reading as the socket doesn't always get to sit square or flush with the bolt head due to the angle of some parts and the room allowed under the hood. In other words 12 point bolts work great building the motor on the engine stand but not as well when it comes time to preform maintenance on the motor or upgrading it later.

Big Dave

I was wondering about the Rochester QuadraJet to Holley square bore adapter plate you showed.

Twelve point fasteners look better than the regular hex head but I recommend hex heads for ease in getting a good torque reading as the socket doesn't always get to sit square or flush with the bolt head due to the angle of some parts and the room allowed under the hood. In other words 12 point bolts work great building the motor on the engine stand but not as well when it comes time to preform maintenance on the motor or upgrading it later.

Big Dave

That is an interesting point. I don´t need flashy parts, I like it when it works and looks clean. Gonna try and use little chrome and anodized things. Right now its only for the heads and intake that I have 12-point. They came with the package. Probably keep those at least.

I like the quadra jet for the good milage etc. Will keep it for the first start and then I will see what I will get. It might not be the best in adjust ability for the less experienced. But tuned properly it might be real good for my milder street setup. So I bought this inexpensive adapter/spacer, just needed some polishing to get the proper shape and look. A spacer like this might also be interesting in terms of performance right?

Have been thinking and going through the whole Megasquirt setup and I am really liking it. First get this done and initial start-up. Then planning for the possible EFI setup. Want to build it from scratch (well buying the kit anyways).

So tonight I got the engine and tranny out. Finally saw the correct casting numbers 3999289 - A11 73. It should be a 1972-late seventies. 2-bolt block (though some could be 4 bolt, I am not thinking this one is). So it´s nothing special at all.

What are the limits with 2-bolt mains in a stock 454? Revving and power-wise?

Checked the input shaft on the tranny and it looks nice, the throwout bearing looks nice too, same with fingers on clutch.

Check the pics if you see anything out of the ordinary or if you have advice on checking wear in thesesections as the everything is torn down.

Got that old lo-rise intake off and did a quick visual check of the valvetrain. The pushrods all looked nice, straight and little even wear. Same with the rockers and valve tips? stem head? :-)

The springs that are installed are those standard? Also how can I check what pushrods I have and I maybe they are ok, re-use (if they fit with the new heads etc), bad idea?

Oh and one of the motor mounts had separated. Is the stock replacement the best or?

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010771Medium.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010775Medium.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010778Medium.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010787Medium.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010792Medium.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010793Medium.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010795Medium.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010809Medium.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010810Medium.jpg

No one has any comments?

Anyways I got the heads of today. Trying to figure out what compression I will get with the heads I got. Sooo ... I found some numbers on the piston L2377 030, second row 2E069. So are these forged Speed pro pistons (TRW)? 0.030 over. Or can anyone fill me in?

So for the compression calculations:

Heads have 110 cc chambers, bore is 4.280.

What would the gasket bore be, or simply what bore of the gasket is ok, 4.370 ? compressed thickness would typically be 0.039, right?

The block has been decked so that takes what 0.020-0.030 off the deck. Didn´t measure piston down in bore. What would a decent value be there. 0 if zero decked I guess.

Oh and the pistons has valve reliefs (two) approx 5 cc in total.

Let me hear a verdict.

I agree with what Phillip stated earlier in this post, you got a lot of nice toys, and a BBC is another nice toy to have :yes::D:thumbsup:

Bump! come on guys!

Use these "Calc's" to figure your compression....I like the first one best.....Jackel

http://www.projectpontiac.com/ppsite15/compression-ratio-calculator

United Engine and Machine Co. (http://www.kb-silvolite.com/calc.php?action=comp)

0 decked motor should be 0 from the shop...
Gasket bore depends on the gasket you use but does not make a huge difference in outcome. 4.370 is good.
Don't guess, chose a gasket for your desired compression value based on what "Quench" you want and use that for your calculations.

Thanks Jackel.

I am using Dyno2003 but I liked the first link.

I get approx 8.2:1 to 8.6:1 depending on piston down in bore @ 0-0.02 and some other variables.

Measured the gasket that was included in my kit. 4.500 bore 0.039 compressed. But it doesn´t change that much though.

With the first link I get a dynamic compression at 5.45:1 with my cam 240/246 @.050 112 LSA .560/.573

So what do you think guys, should I go for a domed piston 13.8 cc dome approx 9.6:1(6.7:1 dynamic) or even 29.4 cc dome approx 11:1 (7.5:1 dynamic)+maybe thicker head gasket. Or just stick with what I got right now. The pistons haven´t seen that much action.

As for quench I will measure the exact piston down in bore. But something like 0.040 quench is desirable.

My plans for this engine is a playful street machine, power band = 1500-6000.


Some simulations from Dyno2003:

- Flat top pistons (8.6:1)
454 @ 6000
450 lb-ft @ 4500

- Domed 13.8 cc (9.6:1)
476 @ 6000
474 lb-ft @ 4500

- Domed 29.4 cc (10.7:1)
500 hp @ 6000
493 lb-ft @ 4500

/M

That Dynamic compression is too low. From all I have read, try to shoot for 8.25 and below for trouble free motoring. Somewhere between 7 to 8 is great for a street motor.
Jackel

Hmm I used the first link to calc. dynamic compression. 6.135 connecting rod, 300 @ .006 (240 @ .050) and 112 LSA. Are you saying that something is wrong in my calculations? or that I need it higher, meaning 7-8:1 in dynamic or static?

What aspects would you factor in for running low versus higher comp. on the street? We have decent gas over here so running up to maybe 11:1 is possible right? if we just speaking of detonation issues. What are things would be the major factors? Heat I guess.

Thanks for your help!

Magnus, read this. It will get you right where you want to be....Jackel
Dynamic CR (http://www.empirenet.com/pkelley2/DynamicCR.html)

Magnus, read this. It will get you right where you want to be....Jackel
Dynamic CR (http://www.empirenet.com/pkelley2/DynamicCR.html)

I am on it. Like reading! :-) but I also like discussing with people that have experience and there are a bunch on team nova that know what they are talking about. I also have connections with a respectable engine builder that I will discuss with also. Then time to shop for new shiny stuff! :-)

Thanks!

I like the discussion to but felt there was soooooo much more to this process than meets the eye that you would benefit more by reading the article. I got more out of that article than almost anything I have read on the subject. I don't have building experience with big blocks so reading gives me just enough knowledge to be "DANGEROUS". I felt it would give you a good perspective on this complicated issue. That said, it would appear that you need to go higher with your compression or drop your cam size down to give you more cylinder pressure to obtain a better DCR. With the world on a hunt for clean air, I would keep the Static compression low enough to run no more than 89 Octane Gas. Of course no one knows exact trends for future gas production but I hear rumblings that high octane pump gas will soon be a thing of the past. The best, most efficient combustion chamber design would not include a dome piston for street use. If it was me, I would try to stay away from that and configure your compression with head cc and flat top or D-Shape pistons. Like I said though, I am no builder, just having fun being back in the whole classic car process. Jackel

http://cochise.uia.net/pkelley2/dcrvb6.zip - Good handy program to get all the things one would need.

I agree with the part of ppl just getting enough knowledge to be dangerous.

Will be talking to some ppl that have eveyday real world experience to get their view. And yeah maybe the fuel octane will drop, but then again maybe E85 will be the way to go.

Small update. The subframe is off the car and one step closer getting blasted and painted. Now almost everything except in the front end is disassembled. Just need to order up some new parts, so that I have everything next year.

Then I also need to decide on my engines future combo. Removed the oil pan. It is a 2 bolt main block and it has cast crank and cast connecting rods.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010840Medium.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010841Medium.jpg

Magnus, do you already have the cam and heads? I noticed the heads have a note that recommends custom pistons and at least checking spark plug clearance. I was wondering why not go roller cam and lifters?
Are you welding the seams on the subframe? Keep up the good work!!!

Magnus, do you already have the cam and heads? I noticed the heads have a note that recommends custom pistons and at least checking spark plug clearance. I was wondering why not go roller cam and lifters?
Are you welding the seams on the subframe? Keep up the good work!!!

The cam, heads, lifters, intake are already in my possession. Its the matched top end kit from edelbrock, so as long as I get the compression right it should be a fairly good combo as advertised. I know! I think they should update to full roller (cam and lifters, I have comp cams rollers rockers), but then again, the cam isn´t that aggressive(lift and ramp) so it won´t put that much strain on the valvetrain.

I have been thinking about the subframe, and as I like the stock modified look of the 70ies. I am not thinking of doing any radical cosmetic upgrades to it, but the is tons of slag? from the factory weldings, might just polish does away. Does it do that much for strength? Might just do it in that case.

Thanks for the response!

Ohh and I will be getting some time with my friends engine builder. So I will hopefully made up my mind after the weekend about what route to go with the lower end.

I would try to smooth it out as best as possible and add a few more welds just for strength. Then let the powdercoater have their way with it.

I like the edelbrock kits, they take alot of guesswork out. Like you said get the compression where they have their engine and ya know real close how much power youll be putting out.

You may want to look at the Edelbrock high compression big block heads. They come with a 100cc combustion chamber which would help boost the compression.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-60499/

I bought mine bare and had a good shop do the valve job and some port clean up work done on them.

A two bolt main block should be fine for the power level you are at. I would use main studs though as some cheap insurance and some good ARP rod bolts.

You may want to look at the Edelbrock high compression big block heads. They come with a 100cc combustion chamber which would help boost the compression.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-60499/

I bought mine bare and had a good shop do the valve job and some port clean up work done on them.

A two bolt main block should be fine for the power level you are at. I would use main studs though as some cheap insurance and some good ARP rod bolts.

The heads are already bought. Did get the pistons out today. ARP rod bolts already in place, no main caps studs though. Adding that to my list.

Some pics of the "old" clevite bearings. What do you think about the wear patterns?

As I am most probably going for new pistons, and a hone might remove to much, I might go 0.060 over instead at the same time. We will see.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010867Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010868Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010869Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010870Medium.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1010876Medium.jpg

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1020124Large.jpg

Some front end stuff going away to get media blasted and painted. Satin black.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1020119Large.jpg

Engine block stripped and awaiting some work from MMR (engine rebuilder) Either keeping the 0.030 and just a new hone or going 0.060.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1020116Large.jpg
Clooooseup! :-)

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/In%20the%20garage%20-%202009/P1020112Large.jpg
Some stuff leaves the garage and some stuff arrives. There is a bobber being built also. Not mine though.

Not much happening or well I have dropped of the block at the machine shop. And not it is time for planning and shopping. Either I keep the stock crank, stock connecting rods and go for new domes pistons. Something like 10:1 - 10:5 in static compression. Or! I go for a stroker kit pushing it to a 498. Just need to find a stroker kit that has pistons that don´t need valve clearancing.

Oh and otherwise I am spending time cleaning up parts, and some needed small rust removal in the trunk and firewall.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj24/ArenaSwe/P1020151Small.jpg

Some OER spatter paint will dress up the trunk in a original way.

Hmm was wondering, I want to run idiot light and auxiliary gauges for oil temp (that is fixed) but for water temp, I am running my gauge in the head at the moment, hard to do both in that spot, but I guess the idiot light is calibrated for that spot, where else could I hook up the idiot light?

.

Hmm was wondering, I want to run idiot light and auxiliary gauges for oil temp (that is fixed) but for water temp, I am running my gauge in the head at the moment, hard to do both in that spot, but I guess the idiot light is calibrated for that spot, where else could I hook up the idiot light?

There are temp sender holes in both heads and the intake. The temperature difference is minimal between the locations.

There are temp sender holes in both heads and the intake. The temperature difference is minimal between the locations.

Thanks, just as I thought!