3.0 liter rebuild
 

Hello,
I have a 79 3.0 being rebuilt and two piston choices. Hoping for some insight to decide which to use. What I have is a set of stock US 79 8.5:1 and a set of 9.3:1 KS pistons. I am thinking to use the latter with 964 cams and a my big port. iS with a euro fuel distributor.
Any pitfalls in this simple logic? I am also considering using a set of euro 9.8:1 pistons that have a line on. Recommendations?

Thanks,
Chris

Piston CR's are usually lower than advertised. I would go for the Euro "9.8" pistons, and hope to get 9.5 actual when installed. It sounds like you are sticking to CIS, so you should also consider William Knight's M1 cams instead of the 964.

I can’t find a website for William Knight. Anyone??

call him: 615-969-4917.

3.0 Rebuild
 

I am taking a similar route with my ‘82 SC - Early large port heads and matching CIS with higher flow fuel distributor, “Max Moritz” P&C (CR 9:8:1?), W Knight M1 cams, SSI’s, exhaust 2/1, M&K or a few others I have to choose from.

I think this is a sound option based on feedback from similar setups. My MM P&C set (good used) has odd rings and I will probably have to source custom rings or machine the P&C’s for a more common set.

I also have a rebuilt short geared (2nd - 5th) ‘77 mag case 915 transmission with some other internal upgrades (Wavetrac, Wevo internal gateshift, reinforced side cover, one piece bearing retainer) to complement my slightly higher powered engine.

I feel this should make for a fun and reliable street setup. To save some money, I plan on handling the engine removal and partial tear down. I will let a pro handle the long block! My CIS has been very reliable, so I have opted to keep it until I can’t keep it going…

The Max Moritz designed pistons have larger valve cutouts than CIS pistons (which basically have none). Thus, you can use different cams than those cams designed for CIS engines, including the M1 cam. Before you buy, talk to William Knight.

Found one yet ?

I don't think he has one. I do business with him by email and phone.

Thanks