So busy, but finally got some time today. Pistons all installed and test fit pan.
When installing:
I DID end up dipping/soaking the piston in a bit of oil. Yes, I mentioned earlier I did it a different way prior, but really wanted to be SURE of good oil lube. And, well, it is a better way. Just messier.
So each piston: held it by rod, made sure the ring end gaps were located correctly. Then dip in the oil. I then, while it's soaking, clean the bearing journals with degreaser. Then pull out the piston and get most of the oil off and set it in your installation ring. Gently push it in (remember to orient the arrow on the piston to the front). If it stops hard pull it out and have another go at it. A ring may have slipped out and caught on the block face - you don't want to force it and damage a ring or ring groove. Usually it goes about 3/4 the way in easy, then tap rest of way with a wooden handle. All the time keeping track of the rod as it goes in so it doesn't nick the journal of the crank or get caught up on the block. When the piston is just flush with the deck I spin the block over, make sure the bearing journals are still oil free, snap in the bearing, lube it, then push/tap it down until it seats on the crank.
Then install a bearing in the rod cap, and install. Again, use your hands and not the bolts to pull it down snug, then torque to spec.
The second piston of each pair is a little more challenging because of limited space and the rods needing to be parallel or it wants to jam up. Just take your time and go slow. Don't forget a bit of lube on the sides of the rod where they touch each other around the bearing
How slow? I spent about 2 hours installing the pistons.
Then install your oil pump. DON'T FORGET TO PUT THE OIL PUMP DRIVE SHAFT IN FIRST. The collar goes up towards the dizzy (or down since you're working on the bottom of the block). Then the oil pickup and you can test fit your gasket and pan. I'm using a one piece rubber/metal gasket. The only thing I will ever use again.
My apologies for not taking a pic partway through.
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