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. [...]
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” [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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