Block Work

The guys at JMS Racing Engines got to work cleaning and machining the block while I got busy ordering parts. LT1's are machined like any other small block Chevy, so there's no need to go into great detail about that.  It's cool to watch the process take place, though- boring the cylinders, decking the block, align honing the mains, and the final honing of the cylinders.

Lastly, Mike Johnson balanced the rotating assembly. The LT1's factory powdered metal connecting rods are actually very good for high-performance applications.  They are strong, relatively light, and their weights are consistent, rod to rod. Mike said they were all within a gram of each other, and that makes the balancing process much easier. The stock replacement cast crank from Scat was also right on the money.  Spinning on the balancing machine with bob weights attached, the crank only needed a couple of small holes drilled into its counterweights to true it up.  

The build will continue next week...