[DeTomaso] Quick Question, 408 Stroker drop in or require clearance?

[JDeRyke at aol.com]

In a message dated 8/17/07 4:00:54 AM, littofreakydevil at aol.com writes:

<< Hi just thought I ask those who have rebuilt engines before.. Does the 
block have to be grinded for crankshaft / rod / bolt clearance when you take a 
351C and use a typical 408 stroker kit? How about a 393 kit? >>

There is no standard. A big problem is crankshaft counterweight clearance 
under the oil pump. Some 'kit' builders cut the crank throws more than others 
leaving it to you to trim whatever pump you decide on, to fit. Not all 
combinations will work together. And cutting the crank counterweights causes an 
imbalance problem thats fixed when the assembly is balanced which again can be done 
either externally (stock type) or internally (better but more expensive). It 
also depends on which crank you start with. Various brands of rods cause the 
block pan rails to need clearance grinding, too. This is not really a 
poorly-equipped home-garage installation; best to find a shop thats built one or two 
before & go with their engineered short block.Then all thats necessary is to make 
sure the pistons they chose will fit your cylinder heads & cam, and don't pop 
out of the block so far they tangle. Stroker cranks are all about completely 
redesigning the whole engine. Good luck- J deRyke
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