How much machining needed?

[Fox]

I have decided to build my 302 from a short block assembly, and I plan on using a stroker kit. In doing my homework, I see some stroker kits listed as "balanced" and others listed as "machining and balancing required".

I will farm out the balancing, but:

1.) How much machining can be needed for a new kit from FRPP?
2.) Is a balanced Eagle kit really just 'drop in, bolt and go' parts?

I want to do as much of the build as possible, and am very mechanically inclined, but only book smart when it comes to engines. I would appreciate the help.

-John

[Bruce Edwards]

John,

Most stroker kits require block relief cuts for the crank throws. If you change out the crank and rods like in a stroker kit you need to balance the rotating assembley to the balancer and flywheel you are going to use. It is a good idea to balance the pressure plate or convertor at the same time.
I have never used the Eagle kit so I have no idea on that one.
If you want to lighten up the rotating mass you can have the throws cut down.
Have you checked the new Ford Racing catalog? They show three different 347 stroker kits.

[Fox]

Bruce,

Thanks for the insight re: block relief. I'll give the Ford Tech line a holler on Monday.

I appreciate the help.

-John

[Bruce Edwards]

No sweat. Better get out the diegrinder and some good burs!

[Perf. Eng. Eric]

John. Just because the parts are new that does not say they are right. Have a machine shop check the crankshaft journals for size and taper. Have them check the connecting rods for proper size also. As far as a balanced assembly from Eagle ,the last two I recevied from them the pistons were still in the sealed bags, and no weight removal was seen. I asked them how they balanced these items and they said " Oh they are allways the same: I know better. So just have a local machine shop you trust balance the rotating assembly with your balancer and flywheel. Hope this helps.

[Fox]

Eric, that does help...Oh BTW I too would love to see those Vegas pics...

-John