235 engine bore information requested

[Donald M.]

My 235 engine from my '54 Vette has been bored +0.080 over. It needs new rings, because there is some leak down beyond what the mechanic feels is acceptable even though the engine has excellent compression on all cylinders. The crank and rod bearings and journals are in very good condition. Should I just install rings, or should I have the cylinders sleeved and go with new pistons and rings?

The cam is shot. Journals and bearings are in good condition, but all we can figure is that the cam was installed/broken in improperly. Any help anybody could give me on sources for a cam and lifters; perhaps new valve springs, would be most appreciated.

Don Moses
Bayview, TX

For what it's worth, here is a pic of the stripped block...
engineblockbig01.jpg

[William C.]

Re: 235 engine bore information requested

Realisitacly, what to do depends a LOT on what your intentions are, Show or drive? How many miles per year? If 080 over, how much taper in the current cylinder (if minimal just re-ring) You need to do a thorough analysis of what your future holds and price out the various options. Just a suggestion to help start answering your question, in essence What are you expecting for the to accomplish. 500 miles a year is a lot different from 20.000 miles per year.

[Chris S.]

Re: 235 engine bore information requested

what was the percent leakdown ?
Compression test done ?
As Bill said above - the cylinders are not shot - it might able to be honed and re-ringed.