Pelican Parts Forums - 3.6 engine build project

Well, it is official. The project is off and running. I go from being really excited, to asking myself what the heck am I getting into.
I was searching for a high mileage 993, when I came across an engine, so I figured I would build the engine, and then find a car. I found a car shortly thereafter, and decided I would still like the engine as a project.

The plan was/is to rebuild an engine out of a 97, and put it in my 95. The new engine will have RS intakes valves, RS cams, and of course varioram.

I probably would not have attempted this if it were not for this great site and Mike J's site pcarworkshop.

I know most of this has been covered either by Mike's rebuild, or JMarch's varioram transplant on Rennlist, in a 95, so mine will be a little of both. I will try and keep it simple, yet informative. Maybe it will inspire someone else, or maybe it will allow someone to point out what I am doing wrong. I started with a long block and boxes of parts, so I have quite the learning curve. Let me know if there are more photos of something particular you would like to see, and I will try and add them. Enough chatter.... let's begin.

I removed the heads and P&C's, and then removed the rods and sent them to Steve Weiner. Steve examined the bearings, and advised that he would not split the case. I had him redo the rods and add ARP bolts. He sent them to me rebuilt with the bolts installed and instructions on torque.
I then sent him my heads and had him rebuild them and after lengthy discussions, he added RS intake valves. They are pretty. He sent them back along with a set of RS cams he had. I do not believe there is anyone more knowledgeable or friendlier than Steve and feel we are lucky to have him as part of our community. I also have been thankful for the great service and help from the guys at FDMotorsports.

I have now started putting it back together, so here are a few photos.
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1276134374.jpg
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1276134400.jpg

I assembled the P/C's and was getting ready to bolt the heads on, and realized I needed to send my pistons to Steve to have the intake pockets enlarged due to the larger RS valves.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1276134596.jpg

This will give me time to study up on timing the cams. I would be curious to hear what are the essential tools for timing the cams. Wayne's book list tools, but these seem to apply to 3.2's and earlier. The 993 shop manual lists a few tools, which seems to be different than earlier ones. They state you no longer need a dial gauge.

Thanks for dropping in.

Emerald