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I assembled several engines in cars and recently built my 98" kit with no issues. How much harder would it be to assemble the 124" kit since it includes the lower end? I would still need to have the cases bored and also the Timken upgrade.
The local shop will do the work but don't really care for installing non store purchased parts. I know that I am mechanically capable and I have a manual plus the special tools needed. I'm just wondering if it is a lot more difficult that just replacing the jugs, cams and heads. The plus to all of this is that I did the work, I can take many photos and save a few dollars to boot.
you can easily do the work, after you've finished you can then take the chunk of iron youve built to a QUALIFIED mechanic to straighten out your mess......... sell your tools and leave the real work to the pros. i'd also rethink the gmr stuff, haven't you seen the underpowered gmr build here already? may wanna consider hillside or headquarters.
I guess I'm opposite of Stanky, I'd do the work myself. Assembling the flywheels into the cases once all the machine work is done (which would include the timken bearing upgrade) ain't rocket science. I think the hardest part of assembly is getting the damn pushrods and the lifter blocks back aligned with the gasket! If you have a press, the required tools, and the manual, go for it!
To me, the question would be the shop that did the machine work. I used Zippers for the 116" I built about 5 years ago.
Tranny had a defective mainshaft from Baker. I will admit that I didn't notice it, nor did the shop, or Baker. It was sent to Baker and they replaced it with no questions. Feel better?
You can do it yourself. It might take 3 times as long as a pro but you can do it.
Don't let people that don't have the confidence that you have, make this decision for you. You have the tools and the confidence. This isn't like messing with the electrical junction box on your house (it can't kill you).
Start the job after riding season so you can take your time and do it right.
The problem I have with local shops is that theycan make mistakes, butYOU have to pay for them (with your time and more money)
short block charlie has a dvd on the jims 120 build on e bay it will give you an idea what your getting into .
Next time my engines apart going to do a similar build but right now is riding season !
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