Engine rebuild - pt.3

With the short block assembled, it was time for head installation.

From Z2

I used the Felpro 1mm head gasket so I could get my target 9.2:1 compression ratio.

Note: Maxima N47 Head, and a stock N42 L28 short block and rotating assembly, with a 1mm Felpro head gasket makes for a 9.2:1 comp ratio.

I cleaned up the gasket surfaces on the head and the block by using an extra fine silicon carbide wet/dry sand paper and air tool oil as a lubricant. This helps make sure that there aren't any traces of old gasket left on the surface. I recommend that you do this if you do not have the surfaces professionally machined.

From Z2

I also wire brushed out the combustion chambers using WD40 to help break up the carbon deposits. Worked great! At this time, make sure you line up the cam thrust plate timing dowel with the top center timing mark (it will be obvious when you look at it).

From Z2

With the block dowels and head gasket down, I carelessly tossed the head onto the block, making sure to align everything perfectly.

Be absolutely sure that the first piston is at exactly top center.

From Z2

After searching for almost an hour, I finally found my head bolts and thumb tightened them into their holes.

From Z2

Then, according to the factory specified torque procedure, I tightened it all down.

From Z2

Then we installed the crank side timing sprocket. Make sure when you install this, that the timing mark is visible, or you will have to take it back off and flip it over (me).

From Z2

Then the chain tensioner, guides, and cam sprocket get installed. Make sure that you install the #1 cam hole on the cam thrust plate dowel. Then make sure that the "bright links" on the timing chain install on both of the #1 sprocket teeth.

Like this.

From Z2

From Z2

Head and timing system installed.

From Z2

Next up is the timing cover, oil pump, water pump, distributer, all the gaskets and seals, and then the oil pan and valve cover!