I have the intake and oil pan of my 396 off. Should I replace the oil pump while it is apart. I have never seen it fired up so I have no idea about oil pressure on the existing pump. High volume or high pressure if so?

Anything else I should consider at this point?

I can see what look like spit on the upper valve guide on one cylinder at the point where the push rod exits the head. It is not rusted but whatever it is does not look too appetizing. I don't want to spray it with parts cleaner and dry it out, or is this O.K.?

I CAN'T WAIT TO FIRE THIS THING UP!!!!

head gasket Maybe?

Honestly, if you have no history I'ld replace the bearings, pump, chain, all the gaskets, including head and maybe the springs.

I think throw it together and start it up. See how it runs, what it needs, give it hell, cause as soon as you get used to the power it has. You'll want more!

So drive it a while and figure out your next moves..

I think throw it together and start it up. See how it runs, what it needs, give it hell, cause as soon as you get used to the power it has. You'll want more!

So drive it a while and figure out your next moves..
:) :cool: yeap you might get it in there and it might not hold up. you will have to spend the money twice if you slap a lot of new parts in it just to find out you have to spent the money again. I never put new bearnings in one with out havine the crank checked frist.(you can do more bad than good doing that) But on the other hand a new oil pump and timing chain is allways good and maby head gaskets.

:) But on the other hand a new oil pump and timing chain is allways good and maby head gaskets.

I second that. And a water pump while you're at it. Other then that leave the rotating internals alone and hammer it.

Let's see??

If she is 40 or older and you don't get along w/ her than replace her w/ a 22 year ol----, er, -- eh, --- Wrong thread!!

Sorry..

He, He!!

pdq67