Engine Assembly: Final Details

With the exhaust manifolds installed, all the major parts were attached to the engine. I still had a million small details left though. I started with the fuel pump. To make sure it would not leak, I spread some Hylomar on both sides of the gasket before installing it.

The original fuel pipe from the pump to the carb was in good condition so I just cleaned and used it. Then came the oil pressure sender, carburetor, fuel filter, radiator, hoses, throttle linkage, wiring and spark plugs. I bough new NGK APR6FS plugs which should have the correct heat range for my engine. I also made sure that the plug gaps were all 0,75 mm (0.03 inches).

I had bought a Pertronix Ignitor 1 module and a new coil but decided against installing them yet. I would use the original coil and points in the distributor for the engine break in. I knew they worked so I thought it would be safer that way. I turned the number one piston TDC and dropped the distributor in.

I also decided to install the clutch equalizer bar so I could disconnect the transmission from the engine during break in. It was really dirty so I cleaned and painted it. Its bushings were also really worn so I got a new mounting kit.

Final pieces were the battery and valve covers. Connecting the battery revealed a major malfunction in my new starter relay. Right when the negative lead touched the terminal sparks started flying and the engine turned over. I tested the relay and it was short circuited all the time. Luckily my original relay still worked so I installed it back. Now all that I had to do was pour in the fluids and the engine was ready for its first start!