Restoration
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1965 Pontiac GTO Engine

Anybody who's done a comprehensive resto project knows that it doesn't always follow a straight line, nor a precise timetable. You might thrash on it for several weekends in a row and then let it sit idle for months in a sort of automotive limbo-land. That's where Larry Weiner's '65 GTO has been up until recently, but now he's getting busy with it again.


Previous projects included bodywork, paint, color sanding, and upholstery. Now we're getting down to the engine. Even though this particular vehicle has some unique features, the approaches used on it apply to a wide range of resto projects, so you'll likely find some helpful tips and tricks for all sorts of older cars and trucks.

421, Anyone?
For instance, even though the engine looks visually identical to the 389 cubic inch motor found in the factory car, Weiner had to replace it after discovering some severe cracks in the cylinder block, and used a 421 ci block instead. It preserves the correct period look, yet pumps out about 50 more horses without breaking a sweat. He obtained the block from a reputable supplier, but made sure to sonic-test the metal to check for thickness and any hidden flaws before proceeding with the buildup.


Since the car is more of a boulevard cruiser than a hot rod, the internal mods are fairly mild, emphasizing reliability and simplicity over extreme performance. In addition to having the block decked and the cylinder bores align-honed, Weiner installed hardened valve seats, because the engine now runs on unleaded fuel.


Also, other components subject to age and wear were replaced, including the pistons, oil and water pumps, camshaft, timing chain, pushrods, lifter, and gaskets. Since the rpm range is fairly low, valve float is not a big concern, and the original hydraulic lifters for the valvetrain were left stock.

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Photo Guide
stock 389 lump engine replaced with 421 cid
The stock 389 lump is replaced with a 421 cid block, but it looks the same as original.
tri-power carb carberator
An original Ram Air pan for the Tri-Power carb setup is way too pricey, but fortunately quality repro parts are much less expensive.
cal custom valve covers
The Cal Custom valve covers are also aftermarket pieces, but these particular components are no longer available.
fan clutch installed for radiator
A new fan clutch is installed for the radiator.
ac condender and dryer reconditioned
The air conditioning condenser and dryer are reconditioned.
re-cored radiator
The radiator is re-cored, but the upper and lower tanks are original parts.
milodon oil pan
For better lubrication and cooling, the Milodon oil pan has an extra quart of capacity over the stock pan.
factory fuel pump stock unit
The factory fuel pump is replaced with a stock unit.
factory water pump replaced
The factory water pump is replaced with a stock component.


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