Re: Is a 304 worth rebuilding?

[adh@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (Sandwich Maker)]

" From: "Jim Blair" <carnuck@xxxxxxxxxxx>
" 
" A: Someone recently suggested using 4.0L pistons in a 304 block (they had 
" already done it) It's really tempting for me since I have a 304 (needing 
" rebuilding due to worn bearings) and TWO '91 4.0L engine cores (block 
" assembly only) that have good used pistons I could do this with at minimum 
" cost. I think the minor boring job to use these pistons would even allow the 
" aluminum heads to work without shrouding the valves?

i spoke with a fellow that had 4.0 slugs in his 290.  if the 304 block
is as thickwalled it'd be a cinch, and you'd gain about 20 cubes.  and
it might just be enough to take those big valves without notching the
block.

dunno how 304 slugs go, but for the 4.0, speed pro 677p have the
biggest dish, 17.5cc.  compare this to stock ~11cc.

"    On the steering gear, I would replace rather than rebuild as the seal kit 
" (available from NAPA) doesn't include new bearings or bushings (if the 
" bottom bushing is worn out, the seal stops sealing) An upgrade to the box 
" for nicer steering down the road would work now too!

nb. early-'90s [at least] grand cherokee gears have the fastest ratio
you can get, 12:1 or 2.5t l-l.
________________________________________________________________________
Andrew Hay                                  the genius nature
internet rambler                            is to see what all have seen

adh@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx                       and think what none thought