I want to be more comfortable with working on engine internals (I'm afraid to do just a roller rocker swap on my 94 :o ) and am also quite bored. I've got my 250 I-6 in the camaro I can practice on, so can I get some guidance? I'd like to just do a top end rebuild with the motor still in the car, if that's possible because taking out the oil pan proved to be an extremely difficult process and I haven't worked in a week so I'm broke anyhow.

I know not many are familiar with this engine, but can someone give me a basic parts list for what I'd need to rebuild the top end? Can I even do this the way I am describing?

Anything is possible, but I think you will have some serious issues to deal with if you plan to do the mods in the car. the cam in that engine is loooong, and unless you have the rad, ac condenser and grill removed, I don't think you will be able to get the old one out or a new one in. Getting the head off will be a 2 man job unless you're Capt. America, and have eaten your Wheaties that morning for breakfast.

IMHO, you would be better to pull the motor to do the rebuild, and if you go that far, you might as well replace it with a V8. Good luck.

+1 ^^^ i think you should just wait and spend your money on a V8, especially if you want to learn the insides of an engine. you could also buy a crate motor, ready to go, just drop it in. if you do build a V8 there is tons of info out there, and we can help you out with anything.

one thing...read read read, i started reading about engines when i was 15, now im comin up on 19 and i got some skills, but just not the experience. LOL

How many miles are on this engine? If it is high mileage, or has a large amount of cylinder wear, its not worth rebuilding the top end. You'll just blow the rings out sooner rather than later.

I'd just save for a V8 like what was mentioned above.

what is the 250 in? If the car is is excellent shape you may want to keep it factory and do a restoration. Just depends on what your plans are with the car.

Either way I would pull the whole engine and rebuild it or put a 350 in it. What you need to do on your first rebuild is to get someone who knows how to go thru it with you.