[Chucky5150]

I am starting to put my 396 BBC back together after doing an in car cam swap.
I got some basic questions on putting it back together.


Any gaskets I need to make sure I put some silicon on? (water & fuel pump?)
Any that need to go on dry? (head gaskets, right?)
Any bolts that I need to put a thread locker on? (cam sprocket)
Any bolts that I need to put thread sealer on? (head bolts?)

Any other tips and tricks that you could share would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

[Guy Hiltz]

Apply sealer to both sides of the fuel pump gasket,same with the water pump.I've always sprayed both sides of the head gaskets with HiTack.Use Loctite on any fasteners you dont want coming loose,and use a drop of thread sealant on the head bolts.Replace the plastic connector between the oil pump and the driveshaft.Buy the How To Rebuild Big Block Chevy book.
Guy

[66GMC]

If this cam you are installing is a flat-tappet type, be SURE to use a ZDDP additive along with fresh motor oil. Pre-lube the engine to the dripping wet stage and make sure that the engine will fire right up --- before hitting the key. Run it at a minimum of 1500 - 2000 RPM for 45 minutes.

BBC's are bad for flattening cam lobes. Don't ask me how I know, OK?

[Chucky5150]

Originally Posted by 66GMC

If this cam you are installing is a flat-tappet type, be SURE to use a ZDDP additive along with fresh motor oil. Pre-lube the engine to the dripping wet stage and make sure that the engine will fire right up --- before hitting the key. Run it at a minimum of 1500 - 2000 RPM for 45 minutes.

BBC's are bad for flattening cam lobes. Don't ask me how I know, OK?

Oh I know all about flat cam lobes. I had to park it 3 years ago 'cause of that.
I'm installing a roller cam because I don't want to worry about that again.


First thing I did was buy that book
The book, y'all, and the mechanic next door have help tons!

[Guy Hiltz]

My book is almost 9 years old,a lot of the pages are falling out,and theres lots of notes in the back !!!
Mechanic friends are indeed very handy,especially if its your first rebuild/overhaul.
Patience is also a good thing to have lots of.On my first overhaul,I was doing pretty good putting the pistons & rings in,until I got to the last one,and hurried a bit too much,and broke a ring.
I hope you've got matching valve springs for the cam,thats important.
Guy

[Chucky5150]

Originally Posted by Guy Hiltz

I hope you've got matching valve springs for the cam,thats important.
Guy

Yeah springs, cam, lifters, timing chain, some other small parts all came as a kit from Comp Cams.
Even had the spring heights all checked.

I ended up spending a lot of money on comp cams and jegs.com stickers but they just gave me the parts