Over a decade ago I decided that I would not transplant an engine into my '49 fastback. I decided instead to pursue a California Bill spec 216 'hop-up' that preserves the stock chevy oiling system. Nothing has deterred me.
The planning is long since done and the build is now underway. The pistons have been forged. The block, crank and head are back from the machinist . . . and I am ready to start assembly.
The disparity in weights of the connecting rod set (currently in hand) is but a minor setback. I have just purchased 3 NOS rods for 10 bucks a piece. I will send these off to the machinist to have the big ends prepped for insert bearings.
With 9 rods to choose from the bench mark I am targeting for this aspect of the build is:
Rod: ~450 grams
Cap: ~185 grams
Pin bolt: ~22 grams
Rod bolts: ~89 grams
Piston: ~535 grams
Pin: ~94 grams
Total weight: 1375 grams
