[i82much]

Originally Posted by mgarblik

I would respectfully disagree with a Pontiac being any more complicated or difficult in any way to rebuild than any other V-8 vintage engine. Most of us really like the 428 engine. It is a great one, but hardly rare. It was the BASE engine in all 69 Bonneviles. So there's 90,000 units. It was optional in all 1967-1968 and 1969 full size cars. So a reasonable estimate is 200,000-250,000 units? It's the same process to rebuild as any 326-455 Pontiac V-8 with the same costs involved. As mentioned in my previous post, with a good book, a good machine shop, and some basic builders tools, I just don't see any problem. The OP seems to have successfully rebuilt a three speed automatic transmission which IMO, is way more complicated than a gasoline engine.

not saying a pontiac is harder, just cheaper!

[mgarblik]

Originally Posted by i82much

not saying a pontiac is harder, just cheaper!

That's for sure. In my classes, we can still build a 400HP SBC from a junk yard truck core for $1000.00 in parts. From a teaching standpoint, a SBC is very easy on the instructor. All of the machining equipment manuals and all the tooling is designed around a SBC. Those engines more or less rebuild themselves and are very forgiving. You can install the cam bearings any witch way, makes no real difference. With 17 head bolts, half of them can be loose or bottomed out in rust, really doesn't matter. They have so many damn fasteners, 25% of them can be too loose, too tight or missing and the stupid thing still runs. They are the perfect engine for an idiot or a rough beginner. I see your point.