Car will be going off for some much needed body work so I decided to pull the engine and trans to work on them in the meantime. I pulled them mainly to clean them up and paint the engine but I'm smart enough to know that while they are out I should take advantage to do more than just make them pretty. I'm mechanically inclined but am by no means an engine technician. The engine and trans were operational before being pulled. So, short of a rebuild, what should I be checking, doing, or replacing? Or maybe it could use a rebuild...how would I know? Engine is a 1971 455 with G heads. I have no idea if any upgrades have ever been done. The trans is a 71-OR coded TH400. Any and all suggestions/recommendations are appreciated.

 

If it isn't broke don't fix it.

I on the other hand would rebuild both but that's me.

 

How many miles are on it? I would take the opportunity to repair any leaks either may have while things are easy to get to. If you wanted to go a step further you could remove the oil pan and check for any debris as well as checking a couple of rod and main bearings. Pull the transmission pan and check it for debris also. If everything looks good change the filters, re-torque the rods/ mains you removed, replace the gaskets and reinstall the pans. It will give you the confidence of knowing that there are no serious issues instead of wondering later if there was something you could have done to prevent a failure. You know, as long as they are out...

Chris

 

Myself, I would rebuild them while you have them out. If not, I would pull the pan and check things as aready said. Definatly remove your timing cover and check the timing chain for slop or wear.

 

How much money have you got?

- Eric