How to Build a Ford 302 Small Block - Part 2: Removing the Rotating Assembly - EASY!

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of removing the rotating assembly from a Ford 302 small block engine. Following these steps will prepare your engine for further modifications, such as converting it into a 341 cubic inch stroker. This tutorial is based on the second part of a video series by 2CarPros.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Equipment

Before starting, ensure you have the following tools and equipment on hand:

• Engine crane
• Engine stand
• Socket set
• Wrenches
• Screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Torque wrench
• Safety goggles and gloves

Practical Tips

• Use the engine crane to lift the engine safely.
• Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris.

Step 2: Remove the Timing Cover

1. Locate the timing cover on the front of the engine.
2. Remove bolts securing the timing cover using a socket wrench.
3. Carefully detach the timing cover from the engine block, ensuring no damage to the gasket surface.

Common Pitfalls

• Be gentle when removing the cover to avoid damaging the gasket or block.

Step 3: Remove the Harmonic Damper

1. Identify the harmonic damper at the front of the crankshaft.
2. Use a harmonic balancer puller to remove the damper. Ensure it's properly aligned to avoid damaging the crankshaft.
3. Carefully pull the damper off once the bolts are removed.

Practical Tips

• If you encounter resistance, double-check that all bolts are removed before attempting to pull it off.

Step 4: Remove the Pistons

1. Identify the piston access through the cylinder heads.
2. Remove the cylinder heads if they are still attached using the appropriate socket size.
3. Unbolt the connecting rods using a socket wrench.
4. Carefully push the pistons out of the cylinder bores, noting their orientation for reassembly.

Common Pitfalls

• Keep track of the order of pistons to ensure correct reassembly.

Step 5: Remove the Crankshaft

1. Unbolt the crankshaft main caps using a socket wrench.
2. Lift the crankshaft out of the engine block, ensuring you support it adequately to avoid dropping it.

Practical Tips

• Inspect the main bearings for wear as you remove the crankshaft.

Step 6: Remove the Camshaft

1. Identify the camshaft location at the top of the engine block.
2. Unbolt the camshaft retaining plate if applicable.
3. Carefully pull the camshaft out of the engine, ensuring not to damage the bearings.

Practical Tips

• Rotate the camshaft slightly if it feels stuck to help it disengage.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you have successfully removed the rotating assembly from your Ford 302 small block engine. This process prepares you for the next phase of your build, including modifications to create a 341 cubic inch stroker engine. Remember to keep all parts organized and refer to this guide for the assembly process when you're ready to rebuild. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!