First Timer Builds a Big 4, Phase: Planning and Questions Options

[rwilner]

Now that i've got my microsquirt-based induction system sorted out (see the link in my signature), it's time to plan on building my big 4. I'm currently in the planning phase.

I've never built a type 4 or any other engine before, but i'm confident I can succeed with all the help and resources available. Based on my available time I may have someone build it for me but right now I'm planning on doing it myself because I want the experience.

I've read Tom Wilson's book, reviewed Van Svenson's amazing website a few times, bought and watched Jake's video a few times, read many threads on Jake's forums and many threads here.

The goal for this motor is something that's fun, reliable, has excellent longevity, very streetable, and DOES NOT LEAK... This may be a lofty goal for a first time build but I'm going for it. My car is going to stay 4 lug for now.

Target CR between 8.5:1 and 9:1. Intake will be the stock 2.0L airbox and intake runners, exhaust will be SSIs and a bursch or perhaps Chris' SSI muffler.

I'm going to build this motor on a separate GA case which I purchased from a member here...that way I can leave my existing motor in my car and keep driving and enjoying it during the build.

My current plan:

• Source some stock cylinders and bore them out to 96mm
• new 96mm KB pistons
• Jake's 9500 "super" cam kit -- cam, gear, springs, solid lifters, adjusters
• A welded 78mm x 96mm crank
• RS+ style heads
• New pushrods
• sealants + seal kit + front main seal + rear main seal + windage tray seals
• German Bearings

On to my questions:

• For machine work, I need to get the case checked and align bored, the stock cylinders bored, the rotating assembly balanced, and I think I'll have the machine shop cut and assemble my rods once I determine the lengths. Anything I'm missing?
• Van's website and some threads here reference a need to clearance the case for a 2270...is that required or only for certain combinations?
• Obviously there's a billion parts I need that aren't listed here -- bearing dowel pins, pushrod tubes, various fasteners, tin, etc...should I just purchase a core motor to pilfer these parts from or try and source them new / used individually?

Comments welcomed and more to come!
Rich