Hello Group. I am new to this site and have what i think are some possible issues with a new short block i just recieved. Block was supposed to be a Gen VI block so i could run a mechanical fuel pump and have clutch pivot ball for manual trans. Well block was a L-29 Vortec Block. graemlins/angry.gif I know i can handle both those problems with the bracket from Scoggins Dickey for the clutch z-bar and a electric fuel pump. I guess my concerns are the heads i purchased and needed head gaskets. I bought the 320 Pro Topline aluminum heads. What head gasket would you all recommend. And will i need the plug kit for the block to block off water passages. One last thing, the cam that was installed is Crane Part number 139741. 296/304 advertised, .610/.632 lift. on the cam card it says the cam is made for a 70's and up big block, the cam fits but are the dimensions the same: will it work fine in the block. Also i read another thread at Chevelle Tech that stock roller lifters are not good past .560 lift, is this correct. Do i need new lifters :mad: If so what do you guys recommmend. Thanks guys, any and all inputs appreciated. I am worried i have got a bunch of cool parts not made to fit.

I'm thinking all you need for head gaskets is a Gen V/VI gasket. That gasket will block the front pair of holes in the block, no need to plug them. I would expect, but have not investigated, that the rear two holes in the block will have the larger hole covered and the smaller hole open with a Gen V/VI gasket. (The gasket I bought is like that, not all are. I'm not sure why.)

Comp Cams catalog specifies a special cam for Gen VI blocks. L-29 has a cam retaining plate, and the nose of the cam is stepped down to accept the retainer. It also says the Gen VI uses a special timing chain set.

I didn't know the L-29 block did not have a provision for mechanical fuel pump. I thought it did. I learned something today!

Can't help you on the rest of the questions, sorry.

You have been most helpful. graemlins/thumbsup.gif went home last night and i dont think i have head and gasket issues. i looked at the toplines last night and they have the water passages in the head. but the cam issue i am wondering about. i knew there was a plate for the cam and i noticed that it was not installed. i am wondering if i can use a cam button? this is what really is kinda getting me. also how about the front cover does it take a special gm cover or any cover. i looked a gm one and it had a provission for a crank trigger or some sensor on the bottom by the front main seal. i will go to the comp cams catalog and look further into this nitemare. thanks agian all. lemanster

Spoke with the engine builder today and he said that i wont be able to use the cam plate that bolts to the block but i can use a cam button :confused: . I know that is what you use on mark iv blocks but can i use one on a newer gen v or truck block like i have? anyway he said he was sending me what i needed. if the group has any thoughts please let me know. Happy New Years to the group. lemanster graemlins/beers.gif graemlins/beers.gif

67lemanster

be careful here. the end clearance on the camshaft is critical on a roller cam. It needs to be about .004--.006". the is determined by the clearance between the button and the inside of the timing cover. You cannot under any circumstances assume it's correct or even close based on what somebody says. The only way to know is measure it or have somebody with the right tools measure it.

Your engine block can be ruined or damaged if there is not enough clearance, the timing gear eats into the front of the block. if there's too much clearance there will be issues with the distributor and possibly the lifters may dig into the adjacent lobe. No good in either case.

Again, this must be measured, you cannot take anybody's word for it unless they personally measured it in your engine.

Tom

Do I remember right? The MK VI uses a plastic timing cover? And it probably isn't suitable for use with a cam button?

Use a 502 timing chain kit, forget the button.

It will have the thrust plate, fasteners and timing set BUT you must use a late model stepped nose cam.

Comp Cams has them and this also works in a Mark IV block.

Jake has the right idea. However, you already paid for one roller cam, right?

Did this engine come out of an ebay deal?

Tom

No it was not an ebay deal...even though it sounds like one, plus the fact i am fairly new to hot rodding. it seems like that is the safest way to go. i appreciate all the input sorry i am so long to get back but i was outa town. Happy new year to all. anyway back to the motor i guess i will eat the price of a new cam and buy the one jake recommends for the gen v block. it seems like $250.00 now is a small price to pay now as opposed to later on when and if the motor frags from my inept ability to measure .004 of an inch. graemlins/clonk.gif . so i will keep you all informed as i get closer to the final start day. hey jake, i recognize you from the camaro group. i have a 200 4r in my camaro and might need to contact you at a later date for work there.(i kinda hope not though) no offense. graemlins/thumbsup.gif thanks again all.