Build, text and photos by Mike Mavrigian BLOCK PLUGS Using all new GM plugs, I installed the four threaded water jacket and oil plugs on the outside of the block (three steel 16mm plugs and one brass 30mm plug). These plugs feature straight metric threads. No NPT threads exist on the OE block. [...]
By Mike Mavrigian We finally had a chance to run the Pontiac 501 on dyno. Following are the results. We ran the engine at Ross Racing Engine’s new Superflow SF-902 engine dynamometer in late May, 2012 (Ross is located in Niles, OH, about 62 miles east of my facility).
THE FINAL ASSEMBLY by Mike Mavrigian Our intent with this build is to illustrate how you can take advantage of current LS (mechanical) technology, and still create a somewhat old school traditional appearance, grabbing in the range of 450 HP, all without breaking the bank. In terms of exterior finish, we intentionally “relaxed” [...]
Build, text and photos by Mike Mavrigian The Pontiac 455, bored/stroked to 501 CID, is finally completed. This article covers all remaining aspects of the assembly. Next is the dyno run, which I’ll cover in an upcoming article.
The Pontiac is being completed today, getting ready for display. . Both current project engines, including the “Retro” LS engine and the Pontiac 455 will be on display at the upcoming Hot Rod & Restoration show in Indianapolis. This year’s show is held at the Lucas Stadium complex, adjacent to the Indianapolis Convention Center, March [...]
Build, text and photos by Mike Mavrigian Note: This engine, as well as all of our engine projects, is designed, test-fit and assembled by Mike Mavrigian’s Birchwood Automotive facility in Creston, OH. Now that the block, oil pan, valley cover plate and timing cover have been painted, we can begin final assembly. [...]
Goodson Tools & Supplies for Engine Builders Tapered Wrist Pin Bushing Press Kit is designed to remove and replace tapered bushings in diesel applications with wrist pin diameters up to 54mm. The press base is designed to work with a shop’s hydraulic press to ease tapered pins into and out of connecting rod eyes.
Ross Racing Engines’ Tony Lombardi cut the valve reliefs using an end mill and his adjustable piston vise. Build, text and photos by Mike Mavrigian The Pontiac bigblock build (starting with a 455 block and boring/stroking to 501 CID) is progressing. I apologize for the time delay, but this build has been [...]
Goodson Tools & Supplies for Engine Builders is pleased to announce the acquisition of the assets and product lines of Goodtool Brake Service Tools & Supplies. Goodtool Brake Service Tools & Supplies has been supplying brake service companies with replacement parts, cutting tips, silencers and more for brake lathes since 1996. With the acquisition, Goodtool’s [...]
Build, text and photos by Mike Mavrigian . I realize it’s been a while since my last posting of this project’s Part 1 article, but I’ve been tied up with multiple projects at the same time. Since the Part 1 article, I’ve obtained the crankshaft, had the heads finish-machined and assembled [...]
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