Parts Sources & Interchanges

Posted by Joe Hall On 2007/5/24 19:25:29

Someone asked where I have found parts earlier. I assume it is common knowledge that early Chrysler 318 lifters fit? As it is that early GM 350 rings fit?

A modern, neoprene, rear-main seal made by FelPro (#BS 40613) will replace the pesky (repro) rope seal that is currently about all that's available to replace the OEM seal. The OEM ones are great, when you can find them, but the repro ones only last 10-15,000 miles before coming apart. When either one fails, it is near impossible to replace without removing the engine and breaking the crank loose. The FelPro seal fits misc Jeeps and Caddies up into the 1990s; it installs easily with the oil pan removed. I have about 15,000 miles one now and so far it has not leaked.

As for pistons, the EGGEs are better than nothing, but are hard to cool down unless fitted with lots of extra clearance. I have a set in a car that currently has 30,000 miles on them, and that engine still runs 10-20 degrees warmer that normal. I prefer to sleeve the block back to standard (all 8 holes) and use servicable OEM pistons. I have heard ROSS makes a good set of forged ones, but do not know that first hand.
As for rod, main, and cam bearings, timing chains, piston pin bushings, vacuum advance rebuilds, etc. Terrell Machine in Texas has always been a reliable, cost competative.
FOr the oil pump, I have used Max M's and Packard Intl's. BOth are similar, but different engineering ideas, but both work. P.I sells theirs for less than half of what Max M gets for theirs. I am chompin at the bit to try one of the Melling pumps now !

As mentioned earlier, all this info may be common knowledge to most folks on this NG, but maybe someone need to know some of it.

Thanks,

Joe Hall