On the nose

We're .002 clearance on the mains, which is perfect.

By comparison

While unboxing everything and getting the block back onto the engine stand, it was discovered that the block was bored to .040 over and the pistons are for block that has been bored to.060, so that won't work. A trip back to the machine shop leaves us with nothing to do but work on getting the crankshaft measured and installed.

The very minor inconvenience, when compared to what has happened to my family over the last few days, does not even register right now.

Carrying on

The block, crank, pistons and rods are back from the machine shop. The owner of the shop was so kind to help a guy who is determined to do as much as possible himself by offering advice, completing the critical tasks correctly and then handing the ball off at the goal line for a sure touchdown.

The freeze plugs were driven in and left to cure while a new lifting chain that was ordered to replace one that was misplaced at the machine shop comes in.

This blog was created to allow our mother a chance to follow along from miles away. She always supported everything I did - and read every post of this though she could not care any less about cars than she did. She passed away peacefully and unexpectedly two days ago, but we will keep plugging along in her absence and memory.

Progress

 

A trip to the machine shop afforded a quick look at the block and all the machine work that has been done. The pistons are due in very soon and the rest of the work should be completed soon as well

Missing

This lovely 1959 was one of only a handful of metal-bumper cars at the Northwest Arkansas Corvette Club's annual Summer's End Car Show.

This 1966 427 solid-lifter, four-speed coupe in Rally Red was the clear belle of the ball at a show that did not feature one single metal-bumper C3. Once this car is finished, we might take the class by simply showing up.

Off to the machine shop

Back on track after an unexpected tree removal tapped into the car fund and it's off to the machine shop.

The owner of the shop seems really nice and interested in helping this project along, which is much appreciated.

Keep moving

A tree fell near the house, so there wasn't much extra cash to buy car parts this week. Yet, after a bit of research and a few dollars, the birdcage ground is in place now. It's a small thing, but at least we can keep making progress.