To rebuild or not to rebuild, that is the question.

[jeryst]

Cuda's in the body shop, and will be done in another week or so.

Motor is a 340 with 45k miles on it. I was told it was a running vehicle when disassembled.

Should I take the chance of just putting it back in like it is, or should I have it rebuilt or at least refreshed?

[Moparal]

valve seals are over 30 yrs old and may end up in the oil pickup tube. Rear main seal is rubber so is the front seal. I'd tear it down and clean it, install new bearings, rings, seals, and a valve job to be assured in your mind. The engine is out and it doesnt cost much right now

[EVIL72]

 I'd go through it, just to be safe. That way you know for sure it's all fresh.

[GoodysGotaCuda]

Tear it down

[MEK-Dangerfield]

It really depends on your budget.   

[LAA66]

 I would rebuild it if it were mine. Another thing to consider is it seems every time the motor goes in or out there are new dings and scratches around the engine compartment.

[Oldschool]

I recommend rebulding it while you have it out....       If the motor is that old, I have a feeling that you will be doing it before long anyway...  It might run ok for a little while, but like Moparal says, the old brittle rubber will start to crumble and find its way to places it isn't supposed to be....        

[jeryst]

Yea, you guys are probably right. Might as well do it now, while its out.

Can anyone recommend a good rebuild kit?

Might get a little bigger cam while I am at it. Can anyone recommend one that will provide a noticeable lope without requiring a lot of other upgrades?

[KellysCuda aircard]

Tear it down

 

[Chryco Psycho]

I would tear down & check , far easier now than having to pull it again

[ViperMan]

Yeah I agree at least replace the gaskets and seals.  That can never hurt.

As far as rebuild kits, I can't help.  As far as cams, everyone tells me to call Comp Cams and tell them what I have and what I want.

Jeff

[72Bcuda]

I just went to a custom engine builder to shop a [340/pre 72 360] core to start on (no luck), he warned me to stay away from flat tappet cam setups. Apparently the current oil formualtions are causing havoc with flat tappet wear. Even with additives apparently this is becoming a big problem.

I'm looking at a full roller setup now, I don't have a good reason to go over 6000 rpm.

[Chryco Psycho]

I never tell you Comp Cams JEFF in fact that would be one of my last choices

[Jacksboys]

I would not risk having to install it twice.  At least take it apart and replace all of the seals while checking all of the clearances. Good Luck   

[422STROKER]

I would not risk having to install it twice.  At least take it apart and replace all of the seals while checking all of the clearances. Good Luck   

 

A gasket kit is 50 bucks.  Plus you can catch any potential problems now.

Tom