Build, photos and text by Mike Mavrigian This build features a GM LS platform, bored and stroked to 408 CID, with a 4.0305” bore and 4.000” stroke. A few of the notable elements include adapting Gen 1 smallblock Chevy valve covers to LS heads and a conversion to carburetion, this time using a [...]
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 [...]
This installment in our LS 5.3L “retro build” covers installation of our hydraulic roller lifters, cylinder heads, pushrods and rocker arms, completing the valvetrain. . Build, text and photos by Mike Mavrigian . CYLINDER HEADS While there’s nothing to complain about with the original casting number 862 aluminum heads (GM P/N 12559862), making them flow [...]
WE COMPLETE THE SHORT BLOCK Build, text and photos by Mike Mavrigian In this build installment, I’ll cover camshaft, timing, oil pump, windage tray, oil pickup, front and rear engine covers, oil pan installation and more. Due to the length of this article, I’ll save cylinder head details and installation in the next part of this build [...]
WE BUILD AN LS ENGINE ON A BUDGET AND TRANSFORM THE MODERN ENGINE INTO A RETRO MOTOR THAT HARKS BACK TO THE GOOD OLD DAYS IN THE PROCESS. BASICALLY, WE’RE BUILDING A CARBURETED 327 CID LS ENGINE, WITH CUSTOM TOUCHES THAT REMIND US OF AN EARLY 1960′S SMALLBLOCK CHEVY We started with an [...]
The flattie, adorned with chrome plated headers from Red’s Headers. These pipes fit like a dream. I thought I’d provide an update with regard to both the Ford flathead build (which has already appeared as a 5-part series on precisionenginetech.com and in the latest issue of Hot Rod & Restoration magazine), as well as [...]
For 2011, I’ve decided to produce two new engine projects, each of which will provide handy and informative tips for our readers. Naturally, each build will be presented in our normal manner…as a multi-part series of technical articles. The new projects for this year include a Pontiac 455 and a “Budget LS” build.
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