small block durability (mexican block 302)

[95CobraR]

I am impressed. I blew a head gasket (Mr. Gasket) after 29 races and 3 years in my vintage car. It blew between 5-6.

After pulling the engine and inspecting everything I found the main and cam bearings were in excellent condition. Timing chain was perfect. All of the wear was in the value train and heads. It will need a valve job, and I'll stick in new springs (they tested within spec). Since the engine is out, I'll replace all the bearings and chain. No cam wear. No cylinder wear.

302 w/ iron (race rules) 351 heads, 6800 shift light, Mobil 1 15W50. Next time I'll pull the heads after 15 races and freshen it (including head gaskets).

Pushrods are not obsolete.............

[Dennis Kelley]

Most of the roller motors I see have very little wear on the bores. Those small blocks are tough and last a long time. I have a 86GT with 5.0 that has 300000 miles on it. It does not smoke and has never had the heads off. It is losing some oil psi but it sounds like who ever built your engine did a very good job.

Enjoy