HI all...

I got done yesterday. Taking my time, cleaning everything and doublechecking I was able to put it back together in about 7 hrs.

The 3.9 is a really easy motor to work on. There isnt much to it.

I really didnt run into many gotchas. I do now understand it is a lot easier to put the intake back on with the AC/Alt bracket out of the engine bay. I did discover there is a bolt behind the idler pully that needs to be removed.

So I installed the recertified heads, then the exhaust manifolds with gaskets, then the new lifters, then the intake. I then began installing the bracket, alternator, the idler and coil.

Then for the fun part - my Harlan Sharp 1.7s were done soaking in racing oil. I installed those with the new rods. After this is was pretty scholastic - EEC wiring, valve covers etc.

Changed the oil, added zinc and started it up. It was loud and clattering at first. Then after about a minute it quieted down. I do have one lifter that clacks now at startup and then goes away with a little rev. I hope that noise goes away permanenty, and I think it will. I have only driven the van now 40 miles and it is running really really smooth now.

One thing about not having manifold gaskets was my gas mileage stunk. It really was 5-7 MPG. And also, it really lacked power when it went into closed loop mode (hot).

I can definitely feel an increase in power with the rollers. It isn't much but it is enough to overcome the AC now. The van also has better throttle response and is running a bit cooler.

I still havent done the timing chain. I wanted to get it all together and use it for the beach today. I am really happy with it!!! I will do the chain next weekend.

Thanks to all for the help and advice. Now I can start thinking about paint and tape schemes