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Learn to rebuild a Mopar LA-series small-block engine with this handy how-to guide.
The Mopar LA-series engine is a small-block V-8 that powered various Chrysler, Plymouth, and Dodge vehicles from 1964 to 1992. This engine replaced the A-series engine (“LA” stands for “Light A”) in most models, as the original A-series engine was phased out in 1967. Initially introduced with a displacement of 273 ci, the 318- and 340-ci (the performance version) engines arrived in 1967 and 1968, respectively. Eventually, the 340-ci engine grew to 360 ci and was tamed down as emissions became more of a concern. In 1992, Chrysler released the Magnum version of the LA-series engine as a 318-ci 5.2L powerplant to further address those emissions issues. The 360-ci engine became a 5.9L Magnum in 1993.
This book focuses exclusively on the rebuilding of the LA-series engine (pre-Magnum) from 1964 to 1992. Veteran author and former Chrysler engineer Larry Shepard walks you through the process of a complete engine rebuild using step-by-step instruction and more than 500 photos. The required tools and a thorough diagnosis to determine if the engine truly needs a rebuild are included. Disassembly, analysis, and inspection of which parts can be saved and which must be replaced, parts selection (OEM or aftermarket), machining, reassembly, and engine break-in are covered. All systems and parts are examined, including the block, cylinder heads, cams, valvetrain, rotating assembly, induction system, and exhaust.
If you are restoring a Dart, Valiant, Duster, Barracuda, or Dodge truck or you simply want to know how to rebuild this engine, Shepard guides you every step of the way.
Pages : 176
Size : 8.5 X 11 (inches)
Format : Paperback / softback
Illustrations : 508 color photos
Publisher : CarTech
ISBN : 9781613258613
Product Code : SA554
Acknowledgments
Dedication
Preface
Chapter 1: History
A versus LA
LA versus Magnum
Other Differences
Available Engines and Details
Production Volume
Special Vehicles
Engine Color/Paint
Related Chrysler Engineering Programs
Crate Motors
Today
Mancini Racing: Performance Parts Warehouse
Chapter 2: Diagnosis, Tool Selection, and Engine Removal
Troubleshooting
Is It Time to Rebuild?
Electrica
Performance
Mechanical
Oiling System
Diagnosis
Tools
Chemicals
Torque
Workspace
Workbench
Safety
Engine Removal
Engine Stand
Chapter 3: Disassembly
Engine Identification
Measurements
Engine Disassembly
Engine Friction
Cam and Oil Gallery Plugs
Core Plugs
Direct Measure Block Height
Chapter 4: Inspection
Safety
Cleaning Process
Machine Shop Questions
Block Inspection
Motor Mounts
Crankshaft Inspection
Dampers
External Balance
Rod Bolts
Measure Rod Length
Pistons
Compression Ratio
Octane versus Compression Ratio
Piston Rings
Cylinder Heads
Valve Guide Inspection
Magnafluxing
Repair, Upgrade, and Replace
Combustion Chamber Shapes
Combustion Chamber Volume
CC-ing the Combustion Chamber Volume
Tools Needed
Burette Reading Math
Compression Ratio Calculation
Displacement Volume
Head Milling Chart
Cylinder-Head Ports
Keeper Grooves
Valve Length
Valve Head Diameter
Valve Tips
Springs
Machined Spring Seat Diameter
Valve Seal
Valve Spring Clearance
Head Bolts
Head Gasket
Pushrods
Camshaft Identification
Cam Drive
Valvetrain Inspection
Mechanical Fuel Pump and Eccentric
Ignition
Oil Pump/Distributor Drive
Cooling System
Front Cover
Induction System
Exhaust System
General Summary
Chapter 5: Parts Selection
Compression Ratio
Camshaft: Stock or Upgrade
Valve Springs
Cylinder Heads
Distributor
Exhaust
Supercharger
Machine Shop List
Block
Bellhousing
Dowel Pins
Crankshaft
Bearings
Rear Main Seal
Damper
Connecting Rods
Rod Bearings
Pistons
Fuel and Compression Ratios
Rings
Cylinder Heads
Oiling System and Fuel Supply
Ignition
Intake Manifold
Exhaust Manifolds
Chapter 6: Machining
Cylinder Block
Milling
Boring/Honing
Sleeving
Sonic Testing
Major/Minor Thrust Directions
Align Boring/Honing
Core Plugs and Water Jacket
Oil Gallery Plugs
Water Jacket Cleaning
Cam Bearings and Distributor Bushing
Crankshaft
Polishing
Balancing
External Balance
Journals
Damper
Connecting Rods
Pistons
Piston Rings
Cylinder Heads
Previous Rebuilds
Deck Surface
Valve Guides
Hardened/Damaged Seats
Valves
Load Test
Valve Seals
Distributor Advance Curve
Exhaust Manifolds
Chapter 7: Preassembly
Tools
Piston Clearance and Piston-to-Valve Clearance
Rings
Valve Clearance Machining
Rods
Pistons to Rods
Ring Installation
Cylinder Block Preparation
Block Heights
Crank
Plastigage
Cylinder Head
Damper
Multi-Keyway Sprocket
Mechanical Lifters
Hydraulic Lifters
Adjustable Pushrods
Oiling System
Intake Manifold Fitment and Alignment
Chapter 8: Final Assembly
Painting
Getting Started
Piston and Connecting-Rod Assemblies
Camshaft Installation
Damper Installation
Oil Pump Inspection and Installation
Cylinder Head Assembly
Head Assembly Installation
Valvetrain
Intake Manifold Installatio
Exhaust Manifolds
Carburetor Alignment
Accessory Installation
Chapter 9: Engine Installation and Break-In
Dyno and Run-in Stand Options
Manual Transmission Installation
Automatic Transmission and Flexplate
Electronic Ignition
Engine Installation Tips
Move the Engine
Lifting Chains
Exhaust
Installation
Motor Mounts
Engine Accessories Installation
Initial Advance Setting
After Installation
Initial Start-Up
After Initial Start-Up
Time-Based Break-In
Mileage-Based Break-In
Appendix: Torque Specifications
Source Guide