Buying Short Block

nm9stheham said
I am getting just 7.9:1 static CR with 71 cc heads and a thinner than average head gasket and pistons .08" down in the hole, which may be on the optimistic side. If it is truly a new, unused short block, and is cheap, then I would buy it but put in new pistons to bring the SCR up to in the low-mid 9 range.

Did you mean Edelbrock 2176 intake? The 1406 carb is a square bore and the 2176 manifold is a spreadbore. Otherwise, the parts seem to be a reasonable street setup. Can't find info on the valve springs to see if they are rated properly for that cam and to see if they clear the 273 rockers well.

Inspect the lifter bores for excess rust.

My CR numbers were pretty similar to yours for what i figured he has. So a moderate cam, no compression, and an incorrect carb flange...we're not looking too hot.lol

Scamp, you either need to rethink the purchase of that shortblock, put pistons in it, or go find a better suited used engine to start with. I can't imagine what price you'd have to get on that short block to make putting pistons in it worth it.

the ONE benefit to this short block is the roller cam...and you're putting a flat tappet in it.

my 2 cents.