Hey guys. I bought a 350 short block a few months back and am finally ready to build it up and install. My old engine had catastrophic engine damage, but heads and everything else is still good to go. The short block has about 20K miles on it. What is the best way to clean the cylinders and lube it before assembly? I know I will pre-lube it before start up, but what should I do to the cylinders, pistons, etc before I put the heads and everything else on? Somebody told me to wipe the cylinders down with ATF but can't remember what exactly ht guy told me. Thanks!
CK5
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Short Block build
- Thread starter andyweder
- Start date
Mcsjr454
Registered Member
I've always used Rotella made by shell, to coat the bearings, cylinder walls, pistons, lifters, cam, ect. Never have had a problem with any I have put together.
Assuming it is clean enough for use as is, you should at least mic the cylinders for out of round, and taper, then ridge.
If they pass those, you need to deglaze and hone for proper ring finish.
Then clean the piss out of it with hot soapy water, like 3 times, with DAWN dishwashing liquid. Change your water and soap everytime.
After last wash, spray entire block with WD-40 mist, the blow dry with air.
Now when your ready to start trial assembly, clean all the machined surfaces with brake cleaner, do your trial assembly, then clean all the parts and surfaces again and begin final assembly. Also clean your tools you'll be using for assembly.
I use STP and 30w oil mixed into a gooey mess for the bearings, and ATF for the cylinders, wipe it on the cylinders just before installing the pistons.
Use cam assembly lube for the cam and lifters (what type of cam you using?) and also some extreme pressure grease or assembly lube for the rockers and pushrods.
