3.5 lump is dead in the water, and is going off to pinto heaven, it has had a dubious history and looked like it threw a conrod at some stage in its life. On original inspection everything looked ok other than a few marks below one of the bores. Since rebuilding, the oil pressure has all but disappeared, so rather than continue to chase problems, I’m rebuilding the 3.9 I acquired and shoving it in the hole.

Avoiding cheap pattern parts so a trip to Real Steel and boot full of bits later.. Clevite mains cam and big end bearings and Cloyes timing chain set amongst the parts. Also picked up a Cyclone camshaft, which is designed for the 3.9 hotwire engine, giving an extra 26bhp so a worthwhile upgrade.
Engine all ready for reassembly.. I’m not killing myself doing this so it’ll be done when it’s done and if it isn’t done, then so be it.


Power.. small nail, fast hammer, Torque.. small nail, big hammer.. I got a big hammer
