327 Chevy Build

Article by Mark Trotta

Removing the engine and stripping the block were the first steps of the '66 Corvette engine overhaul. To read engine disassembly procedure click here.

327 Chevy engine build

The bare block was taken to the machine shop, and the old cam bearings and freeze plugs were removed. The block was then cleaned (hot-tanked), cylinders bored .030" over, and new cam bearings and freeze plugs installed.

327 Chevy engine build

While at the machine shop, the crankshaft was cleaned and measured, and connecting rods were reconditioned.

***************************

Bottom End Build

With the block now home and back on the engine stand, the crankshaft was installed, then the connecting rods with the new pistons and rings.

Gen One Small-Block Chevy Build

Rebuilding the bottom end included a new Melling oil pump.

Read: 327 Bottom End Build

***************************

In almost every SBC overhaul, the camshaft is replaced along with the lifters. As with all phases of engine rebuilding, care must be taken while installing the camshaft.

Camshaft installation small-block Chevy

Read: Install Camshaft in Small-Block Chevy Engine

***************************

327 Cylinder Heads

The heads on this 1966 Corvette were original, casting #3782461. Date codes are J-12-5 and J-20-5 (October 12th and 20th, 1965). These were one of the best flowing factory heads GM had to offer for the small-block. Cylinder head assembly included checking, measuring, cleaning, re-assembly, and painting.

small block Chevy build

Lapping valves does not take the place of a valve job, but it does confirm whether or not one is needed.

327 Chevy overhaul

327 Chevy Build Before and After

327 Chevy build

Read: SBC Timing Chain, Gears, and Cover

To get paint to stick to a cast-iron engine block and cylinder heads, the metal must be very clean and dry.

SBC bottom end overhaul

Read: Spray Paint Engine Block And Parts

Following the cylinder head rebuild was the valve-train assembly, which included installing lifters, push rods, rocker arms, rocker nuts, and rocker balls.

***************************

L75 327 Small-Block

The engine in this article is from a 1966 Corvette. It's an L75 motor, which was factory-fitted with a single four-barrel carburetor and rated at 300 horsepower.

restore an old Corvette

NOTE: The aluminum valve covers seen in the top picture are not correct for an L75 small block. Other than that, this motor was all original.

***************************

Related Articles:

Tools Needed For An Engine Build

Best Engine Assembly Lube

327 Cylinder Head Assembly

Old School Small-Block Chevy Build