In all reality, clearancing the block isn't that much of an ordeal, unless you need to start removing material from the webbing where the cam rides. Most of the time though, its just along the oil pan rails, so the crank throws won't smack 'em. Most of it can be done on an engine stand, with a dremel. (done this before on small block chevys...) If you need to do the cam area though, let a pro do it.

Most of the kits will specify if it is a possibility, or even a MUST in their descriptions.

 

Well done right is done right even if it costs - because it will last long and give years and miles of reliable service. I've learned somewhat the hard way that you have to do right now matter how much it costs.

My machine shop is fairly reasonable on costs, and they have 20+ yrs experience too. Example: Boring out the 8 cylinders on this engine to a bore of 4.040 will cost me around $250 for all 8. I'll ask him about the clearances.

 

Make sure they sonic-check the cylinder wall thickness as well.

 

^^^^ +1 on that.

 

Inlcuded in the price . I'm too much of a cavitation fearer to miss that LOL - Had a engine cavitate on me already. I'll be running SCAs in the coolant as well when I get it running as extra insurance, and a coolant filter.

 

SCA's?

Coolant filter?? <- This one, I think, is just overkill.

 

If you knew what SCAs (also called DCAs) are you wouldn't think the coolant filter was overkill LOL. Saves me on preventative maintenance. SCA stands for system coolant additive - it's used to prevent cavitation/electrolysis. Like I said I'm paranoid about cavitation/electrolysis. What the filter does is automatically replenish the SCA level.

Here's a link to the best article on SCAs and cavitation:
http://www.oilburners.net/articles/cavitationartic.html

Any time a engine is bored out farther than stock or compression pressure raised it's more susceptible to cavitation, just how much more is the question. I've both seen it happen and have had it happen to me. It's most common on diesels and aluminum blocks. Hence the case of the IDI 7.3L diesel.

Talked to my machinist again, he said that I'd have to take it up to a city 2hrs from me to get it sonic tested but if I am gonna bore it out I'm not gonna skip this step.

 

Well looks to me like I'm gonna have to get different injectors! I might end up using the 19lb injectors that were too much before. It at least couldn't hurt to try them LOL.

 

I'm going to have to get a neutral harmonic balancer (I.e. one off of a 318), as the stroker is internally balanced.

 

So, honestly, besides money, why put all this into a old gas engine instead of just buying a good used Cummins?