x

You actually need a leak down test, not a compression test.  Then you can determine if you have a problem with blowby.  If this is a new problem, and you haven't recently added or changed oil, you might be able to rule out the oil level being too high, but perhaps worth checking as well.

Ok,, the plan is to build a really nice 638 cu in engine with a single carb.  We found a good deal on some lightly used American parts, as follows:

Merlin "Pro" block 10.2" tall deck
Crower  crankshaft
Oliver connecting rods
CP pistons (new)
ATI balancer
Brodix BB2 "Extra" heads
Jesel shaft rockers
Brodix single plane intake, Domintor flange

I already had the block at the shop having the paint removed before the current owner decided to resell the parts, and the rotating assembly is already balanced, so it's mostly a matter of selecting and purchasing the parts needed to complete the engine, and then putting it all together.  We have already discussed dyno testing since it's going to take a ride across the country once I am done with it.  Knowing the power output will be a nice bonus, but making sure that it runs properly with no leaks should be worth the extra money spent.

Glad to see you opted for a PRO instead of PROduction Good choice !

Thanks for the vote of confidence.  If we proceed with the project, and Bill doesn't mind, I will post photos and details.  This one should be lots of fun!  I believe this one will see the dyno as well.

Working with Barry on this. more to follow

I am not saying anything yet, but this one should be a lot of fun to post photos and build information.

  Hmm, I have been meaning to build an extra one out of a distributor so I could clamp it down to the intake and have my hands free to turn the engine over if I wanted to. 

I have a clean 1250 cfm Holley list# 80532 for $500, and  1050 cfm Holley (9375) that had the AED calibration and rebuild, still in the AED box for $600

I need a 4 bolt 454 block only,, needs to be able to clean up at 4.310"  (.060" over)

I have a 1971 2 bolt 402 block and dated bare oval port heads if there are any car guys looking.  They have been cleaned and painted already by someone.  Need to sell cheap,, $150 obo.  2 bolt block looks to be std bore, will need one sleeve due to a crack.  Cast crank.  Heads are bare but date appropriate for the block.

heres the story stock 454 chevy. went on the lake yesterday had 60 psi on the oil pressure gauge at 3000 rpm. took it to 4300 rpm and droped to 20 psi were it wont come back up.what do you guys think MAIN bearings.now theres no oil leaks externally.and the motor isnt knocking yet. were going tocheck the oil gauge today, to make sure its not a false reading..oh by the way the motor is 30 years old so i cant say he didnt get his moneys worth..

I would suggest draining oil and inspecting it for debris, possibly even cutting the oil filter if you don't see anything real obvious in the oil.  I would do that prior to running with any other gauge to try and prevent further damage if it's already hurt, may cost less to fix.

The race at lake ming is coming up and im on a strict budget.......need a single carb scoop for a dominator 4500 series carb.....fiberglass, metal, dont care....let me know what ya got. not lookin to spend a fortune. it will be temporarly used until i can afford the scoop i want.

Brad

You might be able to get Louis to bring along the flame arrestor he pulled off his boat at Long Beach when he bolted on the mailbox.  I would be willing to bet he would let you run it free at the one race if that might help you out.

Thanks for the reply GT.  Yeah i wasn't happy, but at least I got to the root of the problem.  Now you have me freaking out that I could do more damage by not breaking the entire motor down.    .  So if i went with a Hydraulic like you suggest, is there a specific model you would recommend based on my specs or should I just call Comp directly?

Bill.. PM sent. 

Plan on tearing the whole thing down to prevent possible further distruction.  I recently took one apart for a guy, bearings were all trashed, cylinder walls scored, and steel embedded in the brand new piston skirts.  I didn't build the engine originally, and the customer admitted that he made mistakes in break in procedure.