How to Rebuild Pontiac V-8s (Workbench)

I have a 1981 Trans Am SE. The biggest Pontiac engine offered in both 1980 and 1981 was the 301. It’s almost impossible to find “go-fast” parts for it as the engine was designed mostly for emissions and light weight, not performance as the other V8s were. This book explains that and why it isn’t really covered. However, it does point the 301 owner/mechanic to the 301 garage, which is a 301 owner website. At least all Pontiac engines have the same footprint.I’ve thumbed through the book and the appendix gives firing order as well as bolt torquing order for the bolts that need torquing.Lots of large, clear, color pictures of the process, as well.I really liked the Aftermarket parts chapter. In fact, it looks possible to build up an entire engine starting with an aftermarket block!Finally, there’s a full page of small type of nothing but sources.I paid for all the text in the book so I was reading it. Unfortunately, when he starts discussing the difference between single and dual plane intakes on page 77, there’s text missing from page 78. I’m educating myself about engines, so I’m disappointed that there’s missing text.I probably will never do my own rebuild, but this book is educating me enough to where I can have an informed discussion about a rebuild.

Good step by step how to. Works w my ‘62 Pontiac Grand Prix

I'm currently in the process of rebuilding a 1977 W72 Pontiac 400 motor, this book arrived just in time. I wish I had this book during disassembly, there are tips specific to the Pontiac such as how to find and remove the freeze and oil gallery plugs.This book, along with  How to Build Max Performance Pontiac V8s (S-A Design)  are a must if you're a Pontiac nut.Now for specifics...This book explains specifics for how to install a Graphite (Graphtite by Best Gasket) rear main seal. As Rocky notes there are also Viton rear seals available for the Pontiac and come with their own detailed instructions so there was no need to cover installation of them in this book. Also very important as noted in this book is to avoid the normal rope seal as they tend to leak. I'm personally going with a Graphtite seal.Freeze and oil gallery plugs are covered in this book. Take note of the hidden oil plug location, it's highlighted on page 94 step 7.Read the note on oil filter bypass on page 111. I'm keeping my bypass and doing as Rocky recommends.Follow his directions on assembly to a T. The only deviation I plan is to not tighten down the valve covers until after I prime the engine. I will have the valve covers in place, I just want to be able to lift them off to check that the lifters are oiled.What's missing (and this is really nitpicking): This book is missing details how to install/remove the dip stick. Though this book briefly explains how to press in the dipstick tube, I recommend doing a Google search if you're confused. There are two sections to the dip stick, the outside portion is inserted from underneath (inside) the block and is then held in place by the lower piece that bolts to one of the main caps/windage tray. I would have also liked to have seen in chapter 1 a list of all the necessary adhesives, lubricants and gasket sealers necessary for a rebuild. You'll want to read the entire book and note each lubricant/adhesive/sealer before you go to the auto parts store.Thanks Rocky for an awesome book!

Great reference

Rotella writes well; I've read several of his books. This book is focused on the bigger engines and 4 bbl carbs. It is still a good reference for cam profiles and other reference data.

This book is a good read. It flows nicely and the information is presented in an easy to understand fashion. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is thinking about attempting a rebuild or even having a shop build you a turn-key motor. If you decide to turn the wrench yourself or not you will understand what questions to ask the shop and be able to double check if they know their stuff. Even if you hate to read the pictures and captions justify the price.

I have read this book twice already. I expect to rebuild my engine within the next 3 years so am slowly gathering information and know-how. This book is fantastic, nice pictures, easy to read and understand with excellent examples. It is very thorough but still flows in a slow enough pace for a beginner with a bit of mechanical aptitude to understand easily. Well done!

A good step by step guide with photos that can aide you in understanding what it takes to disassemble, machine, and reassemble your Pontiac engine. It can help you to better understand what your engine builder is talking about or doing, or help you yourself if you are the type who does his own rebuilds.

This book explains all details of tear down and rebuild. Excellent pictures with easily understandable explanations. Good for any level of rebuilder.

Gillar att den förklarar enkelt så att även en amatör förstår

A realy must have for every Classic Pontiac Owner. A lot of information in this book.

This book is loaded with info for the beginner to pro. A few things I knew about the Pontiac specific blocks, a few I was reminded of that I had forgotten and so much more info is provided on things I did not know! The pics, H-P Engine Combinations and the Source Guide are priceless info. The book is a good start for any mechanic that would like to know more about the Pontiac specific engines. Not all motors are alike!

This book is the perfect aid if you are rebuilding a Pontiac engine. There is lots of information on the little details even the factorymanual does not mention. The pictures throughout the book are a step by step operation from start to finish. I would definitelyrecommend this book to anyone who is considering an old Pontiac engine rebuild.