Aaron's 76 Type LT Project

3 minute(s) of a 383 minute read

So I got the trunk divider panel painted with some Eastwood Rust Encapsulator (same stuff I used for the rest of the interior). So that is all done now.



Also began stripping the sub frame down to bare metal. The plan is to do the final stripping on Sat, which means I gotta sandblast some (yippee...), and then paint it on Sunday. Then I will start to be able to put some parts back on the car.  

9-22-2010

I figured I would start here with some general engine related questions since I have to start thinking about this eventually. I am reading more about engine building (reading a few David Vizard books and some other forums) and I am curious about a couple things - right now my ADD is taking me in the direction of learning more about pistons.

1) What is the best way to go about determining what CR you want to run? It seems that before you decide what pistons, gaskets to run or if you need to deck the block, you need to have some CR in mind. My gut feeling is that I will be around 9.5:1 to 10:1 CR based on my reading.

2) With that said, would there be any reason to run something other than a flat top piston if I end up running the CR mentioned above? From what I have read, flat tops are better suited for that CR and yield better flame travel. Domed pistons are better suited for higher CRs since that reduces the volume. Not sure dished pistons would have much benefit in the build I intend on using.

I know that the heads, cam and other things factor into this, but trying to wrap my head around the pistons subject and better understand that aspect. FYI, I have a pretty good idea that I would like to build a 383 w/ AFR 195 heads with something like an XR288 cam. I have always wanted to try AFR heads in a 383 build, so that is acting as the centerpiece of my potential build. I intend on talking directly with AFR and seeing what they advise for my goals to get more ideas.

Appreciate any feedback that will help me on my quest. I don't want this aspect of the project to sneak up on me