Engines
Chevy’s 632 = WOW
For the most part, Chevrolet is best recognized for its impressive portfolio of highly competitive automobiles, including the Silverado pickup truck, the Suburban SUV, and the electric Bolt vehicle variations. But even though Chevrolet is GM’s most important brand, that does not mean that automobile production is the only thing they do. This Big-Block V8…
Read MoreWhat Can Cause an Engine Knock
A knocking noise coming from your vehicle is never a good thing-unless the neighbor’s cat has gotten caught in the belt. The sound is usually coming from the motor if you can hear it when you start the vehicle or when it is idling. If you hear it while driving, it is most likely caused…
Read MoreHow to Decode Chevy Small Blocks
Deciphering Chevy’s engine casting numbers, date codes, and suffix stampings will assist you in determining exactly what you have in your new project car. These codes are also useful to have on hand when shopping at a swap meet or salvage yard. It’s not always easy to tell what you’re looking at visually, as…
Read MoreHow to Set SBC Valve Lash
Setting or changing valve lash for the first time can seem like a difficult operation, but it is incredibly necessary to get the maximum performance out of your engine, even though it is sometimes disregarded. When it comes to valve lash, it is the mechanical clearance that exists between a rocker arm’s tip and the…
Read MoreHow to Replace Head Gaskets
It’s not uncommon to have a few inquiries regarding your alternatives while installing a new set of head gaskets. For example, should a copper or graphite gasket be used? What does it signify if the fire rings on the gaskets are pre-flattened? Should you apply a sealant to the gaskets before installing them? These are…
Read MoreHow to Choose a Performance Camshaft
Many things will affect how a camshaft works in your engine. First, you need to understand how camshafts work at a basic level before you can compare numbers. With more knowledge, choosing the right camshaft is less like a guessing game and more like making a smart choice based on what you know about your…
Read MoreLove Me a Blown Ford Flathead
If you’re reading this, I’m sure the name “Hot Rod” conjures up some sort of recollection or emotion. It’s all about feelings. I rarely remember or store memories that have no emotional impact on me. If it didn’t make me feel something, I rejected it. Luckily for me, my initial “Hot Rod” recollections are filled…
Read MoreHow to Choose an Intake Manifold
This is the big debate: single vs. double plane intake manifolds. It’s something that every builder has to deal with. What I used for my 454 is shown here. I’ll tell you a little about the engine first. I found a used 454 from a 1970s Chevy 3/4 ton truck. When I took the engine…
Read MoreChoosing the Best Ignition Box
We’re all crazy about our spark. It’s that remarkable little guy who makes our engines purr as they should. And with nearly 900 different options available you are covered when it comes to making that spark the best it can be. It can be difficult to choose the right kit or components to help you…
Read MoreThe Best Ford Alternator Options
Ford: The 1-wire alternator, which is ideal for a clean setup and simple installation, the 3-wire OEM-style replacement, or the earlier externally regulated alternator. The Best Ford Alternator Options 1-Wire Alternator The 1-wire alternator simplifies installation and provides a tidy configuration. It has a single wire that links the charge terminal to the battery or…
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