The small-block Chevy is widely known as the most popular engine of all time. Produced in staggering numbers and boasting huge aftermarket support, small blocks are the engine of choice for a large segment of the performance community.
Originally published as two separate volumes, Small Block Chevy Performance 1955-1996 now covers the latest information on all Gen I and Gen II Chevy small blocks, this time in one volume. This book continues to be the best power source book for small-block Chevy. The detailed text and photos deliver the best solutions for making your engine perform. Extensive chapters explain proven techniques for preparing blocks, crankshafts, connecting rods, pistons, cylinder heads, and much more. Other chapters include popular ignition, carburetor, camshaft, and valvetrain tips and tricks.
The small-block Chevy is widely known as the most popular engine of all time. Produced in staggering numbers and boasting huge aftermarket support, small blocks are the engine of choice for a large segment of the performance community.
Originally published as two separate volumes, Small Block Chevy Performance 1955-1996 now covers the latest information on all Gen I and Gen II Chevy small blocks, this time in one volume. This book continues to be the best power source book for small-block Chevy. The detailed text and photos deliver the best solutions for making your engine perform. Extensive chapters explain proven techniques for preparing blocks, crankshafts, connecting rods, pistons, cylinder heads, and much more. Other chapters include popular ignition, carburetor, camshaft, and valvetrain tips and tricks.
Introduction
Displacement Basics
Chapter 1: Blocks
Block Selection
Inspecting a Used Block
Block Preparation
Align Boring
Decking
Cylinder Boring
Cam Bearings
Core (Freeze) Plugs
Final Block Prep
Factory Block Choices
Chapter 2: Crankshafts
Crank Identification
Inspection and Prep
Balancing
Bearings
High-Performance Chevy Crankshafts
Harmonic Balancers
Chapter 3: Connecting Rods
Early Small-Journal Rods
Large-Journal Rods
Heavy-Duty Rods
Aftermarket Rods
Rod Preparation
Side Clearance
Rod Bore Sizing
Pin Bushings
Rod Bearings
Chapter 4: Pistons
Factory Pistons
Selecting Pistons
Current Factory Pistons
Forged Pistons
Compression Ratio
Valve Clearance
Piston Pins
Piston Rings
Chapter 5: Camshafts
Cam Selection
Cam Drive Basics
Valve Events
Lobe Centers
Current Factory Camshaft Kits
Lifter Types
Valvesprings
Degreeing the Cam
Chapter 6: Cylinder Heads
HO Aluminum Head
Cast-Iron Performance Heads
Bow Tie Racing Heads
Aftermarket Performance Heads
Head Porting
Valveguides and Seats
Chapter 7: Induction System
Dual-Plane Manifolds
Single-Plane Manifolds
Factory Intake Manifolds
Aftermarket Intake Manifolds
Port Matching
Carb Spacers
Carb Selection
Fine Tuning
Electronic Fuel Injection
Chapter 8: Ignition System
Ignition Basics
HEI
Aftermarket Ignitions
Secondary Considerations
Setting Ignition Timing
Chapter 9: Oiling System
Production-Block Oiling
Oil Pumps
Oil Pans and Screens
Oil Filters
Cooling, Plumbing, & Gauges
Dry-Sump Oiling Systems
Chapter 10: Exhaust System
Aftermarket Headers
The Complete System
Chapter 11: Gen II Small-Blocks: LT1 and LT4
LT1/LT4 Features and Differences
LT1 vs. LT4 Features
Cylinder Blocks
Crankshafts
Connecting Rods
Pistons
Camshafts
Oiling System
Water Pump
Intake Manifolds
Engine Specs and Fasteners