340 engine questions

[jmartin99]

I am putting together a 340 for a friends '72 Challenger.  What is the easiest way to prime the oil system before the first startup?  I know with small block chevys you just pull the distributor and put an adapter in the hole and spin it with a drill. 

Also, the second and fourth main cap bolts have threaded holes in them.  Is this for some kind of windage tray?  Did it come with one stock?  I dont have one and wondered if I should be looking for one.

Thanks!

Jeff

[bb71challenger]

The same thing applies for Dodge engines. Get the adapter and use a good strong drill. Turn the whole engine slowly while priming the engine to assure the oil gets everywhere.

[72hemi]

Mopar has a tool that is basically a 6 sided rod that you can chuck in a drill and prime the system. I have one and it works great. As for the 2nd question, yes 340's had a windage tray from the factory and thats what those holes are for.

[72rtchallenger]

Also, the second and fourth main cap bolts have threaded holes in them.  Is this for some kind of windage tray?  Did it come with one stock?  I dont have one and wondered if I should be looking for one.

Thanks!

Jeff

yes they are for a windage tray,,and i would recomend trying to find one

[Chryco Psycho]

Mopar / Mancinis still have the windage trays available new

[71chally416]

Assuming you have bought a new hardened oil pump drive (you should have) take the old one and grind all the teeth off the gear and then clean it up good. That makes a great oil prime shaft. I use a speed wrench with a screwdriver socket that will fit down in the hole where the distributor blade goes. 

[ShelbyDogg]

Before you start turning the pump, take off the oil filter and pump some oil down into the pump side hole.  Fill the filter up then spill it on.  If you don't prime the pump, youl'll be spinning that shaft forever before you get any suction to the pan.

[jmartin99]

Thanks for the inputs guys!!   

I found the windage tray, it was with the oil pan. 

This site rocks! 

Jeff