This is a Level 2 performance engine build on a 1957 356 Speedster 1600S engine. We ported and flowed the intake and exhaust ports and intake manifolds. The pistons and connecting rods were updated and balanced and performance valves were installed, as well as a few other upgrades.
For this engine restoration, a number of upgrades were made during the build to improve longevity and performance. The crankshaft was updated to a late 1963 356 B (crossed drilled oiler) crankshaft. All oil port plugs were removed to properly clean the oil passages in the crankshaft. We then installed new oil port plugs and micro polished and balanced the crankshaft. Next the flywheel, pressure plate and front crankshaft pulley were all balanced individually. Then the crankshaft, flywheel, pressure plate and front crankshaft pulley were balanced together as one unit. Standard rod and main bearings were installed, along with a matched set of 912 connecting rods that were reconditioned and balanced end to end. The camshaft and lifters were also updated to the better wide lobe 912 camshaft and lifters and reconditioned. The rocker stands were updated to the later, stronger aluminum rocker stands and the rockers were reconditioned as well. New JE 83mm 9.25 CR pistons were installed. The cast iron cylinders were reconditioned and fitted to the new JE pistons. The cylinder heads were resurfaced, then we ported and flowed the intake and exhaust ports and matched the intake manifolds to improve flow, efficiency and performance. New valve guides were installed. Then all valve seats were cut on our Mira precision valve seat cutting machine from Switzerland. New performance valves were installed and lengths were set. New valve springs were pressure tested and spring heights were set. Deck height and compression ratio were checked and adjusted. All bearing fitments were checked and recorded. Upon assembly, we measured and recorded all fitment and clearance specifications. The engine oil cooler was updated to an improved aluminum oil cooler.
After the build was completed, we properly broke in and set up the engine. Once we had 100 miles on the engine, we changed the oil and filter, cut open the filter (to check for debris), took an oil sample, adjusted the valves and went over the engine set up one last time. The owner was given a maintenance interval protocol to follow for proper care of the engine during the remainder of the break-in period.
Accompanying the engine restoration was the complete transmission restoration, with all new bearings, synchros, sliders, guide teeth, and bearings.
To see the full restoration on this car, click here.
