quote:Originally posted by inhotwatter:
... are the oil pans you mention larger and, if so, will they fit without having to cut the lower cross member?
Larry's picture is worth a 1000 words. You don't have to cut the crossmember as long as you install the oil pan while the engine is out of the car.
quote:Originally posted by inhotwatter:
... would now be a good time to have the engine bored for a "stroker" motor and do I sacrifice longevity or reliability if this is done ...
The Cleveland is capable of making plenty of horsepower if you spin the motor at high enough rpm (use a bigger cam), stroker kits lower the engine speed at which that additional horsepower is made, approximately 400 rpm lower for every 25 cubic inches (0.25" increase in stroke = 25 cubic inches). If approximately 400 horsepower at 6000 rpm is enough horsepower, then I don't see a need for a stroker kit.
Reliability will not be sacrificed by a stroker kit as long as no short cuts are taken. Also, if a red line of 6000 rpm is used, the engine is so under-stressed at that engine speed that block cracking or lubrication will not be issues. However the oem iron crank is easier on the block than a steel crank, and the oil passages in the oem crank compliment the design of the lubrication system best.
quote:Originally posted by inhotwatter:
... on the cam - when you say lopey, are you referring to the the cycle of the cam or how hard it hits at idle ...
Lopey means a slightly rough or uneven idle. Lopey is between a smooth idle and a rough race car type idle. You can smooth a lopey idle out by adjusting the motor to idle at a higher rpm.
quote:Originally posted by inhotwatter:
... do I need to be mindful if I am getting a solid or hydraulic version ...
The cam I recommended is a hydraulic flat tappet camshaft. No adjusting necessary. You'll have to be mindful to use motor oil known for containing generous amounts of ZDDP, not an issue.