I just picked up a nice '81 caddy (pickup). New head (hydraulic) was installed 10K mi ago by Karmekanics of Berkeley. P.O. failed to follow retourque instructions, so oil in the water now. It is currently a 3 notch, the compression is very good, so I'll just order another 3 notch without worrying about it (right?).
Since I plan on moving this engine to my vanagon at some point (and supercharging it), I'm going to spring for a stud kit.
Ok, #1- what's the best brand and series of gasket to buy? I don't plan on extreme boost, but will expect fully loaded service out of it.
#2-Given the problems I've seen here with cups falling out, I'm hesitant to get it surfaced again, and would rather just put it back together with a new gasket. Risks?
#3- it has a new radiator, hoses, t-stat, tank, and sender. How do I get the rotella out of the system?
#4- just peeking under the timing belt cover shows it tracking halfway off of the pump sprocket. I'm thinking of "measuring" and shimming the bracket with stainless shim stock, instead of pounding and bending away at the bracket. Here's my idea- tell me what you think please.
how about a laser pointer taped to a stick, which can be stuck on the face of each of the 3 critical pulleys.
then make a hoop (pvc pipe, cardboard, etc) from firewall to radiator to shine it on. Adjust until the light sweeps the same for all pulleys. Anyone else tried this? Tomorrow my buddy's powerstroke will pull it home for me.
Thanks!