440 ?s

[BeeKool]

This is my first Rodeo with a Big Block Chrysler of any sort.
I'm getting ready to drop the motor in this week and advice would be nice.

When I place the motor, the only thing that need be on the block are the motor mounts correct? I can place the oil pump after the motor is set.


Secondly, I have a new Torque converter, do I pour some ATF in it prior to placing on the transmission shaft, and what type?
It's a TF727.

 

[oldbee]

Yup & yup. 1qt in t.c.. personally I’d put oil pump on beforehand(a lot more room)leave filter off if ur worried about banging it going in.

 

[BeeKool]

I'm guessing beings this thing is heavy as hell. It's best to wait to install rocker assys and intake until motor is set as well.

Are torque specifications important or does the "tighten by feel" method suffice?
That how I do my 318s and they run well. Lol

 

[1967coronet440]

Intake and rockers on, no big deal. This is how I pulled my iron headed 440, and how the new motor and trans is going in.

 

[1967coronet440]

The plates that bolt into the intake are nice, pick one up at auto parts store for 10-15 bucks. Cherry picker hooks right up to it, nice to have a load leveler also.

 

[Wietse]

Dunno what exhaust you are using, but in case of headers you will need to prepare them as well inside the engine bay.
Also the steering box needs to be in place already.

You might have prepared these already, but better said then silenced and wait for the issue to happen.

 

[BeeKool]

Dunno what exhaust you are using, but in case of headers you will need to prepare them as well inside the engine bay.
Also the steering box needs to be in place already.

You might have prepared these already, but better said then silenced and wait for the issue to happen.

Haven't decided on exhaust yet.
I figured on installing manifold or headers after the fact

 

[BeeKool]

The plates that bolt into the intake are nice, pick one up at auto parts store for 10-15 bucks. Cherry picker hooks right up to it, nice to have a load leveler also.

View attachment 572504

I'll place the rest of the stuff after I drop the longblock in.

 

[vintage chromoly]

Assemble it as completely as possible and then put it in.
Trans on as well.

 

[1967coronet440]

I'll place the rest of the stuff after I drop the longblock in.

Why? Are you worried about weight, because that is not an issue at all.

 

[vintage chromoly]

The best way to go about it is to put the engine and trans in from the bottom.
Build the entire assembly, accessories and all.
Oil in the engine and primed for startup.
I'm assuming you own a backhoe.
Strap the front of the car and lift it up. Slide engine and trans with headers on and mounted to the k frame, under the car.
Lower the car.
Easiest way, by far

 

[vintage chromoly]

If you insist on putting it in from the top, get a leveler as 67 suggested.
Money well spent

 

[kiwigtx]

Drop the car onto a fully built up assembly if you can.....

This was me about 17 years ago.

 

[Ghostrider 67]

The leveler will let you control the angle of the dangle....so to speak..

 

[Ghostrider 67]

Hot chicks and some Mambo beats...what's not to like...turn it UP!

 

[WileERobby]

May I suggest a torque strap or chain for the driver side. Or the Schumacher mounts.

 

[BeeKool]

I placed many a 350 Chebby and a couple 318s. I've always done it as you say. I wasn't sure if the threads on the aluminum intake on the 440 would handle the weight.
It does sound much easier to install the rocker assy and intake onto the motor while it's on the engine stand. Although this motor give my stand all it can handle.

Why? Are you worried about weight, because that is not an issue at all.

 

[BeeKool]

The best way to go about it is to put the engine and trans in from the bottom.
Build the entire assembly, accessories and all.
Oil in the engine and primed for startup.
I'm assuming you own a backhoe.
Strap the front of the car and lift it up. Slide engine and trans with headers on and mounted to the k frame, under the car.
Lower the car.
Easiest way, by far

I like how you think. I have a hoist as well but not sure that I want to take the k-frame and steering linkages out.
Prefer to do this the same way I always have.

 

[oldbee]

Do it ur way, you have a “young” back,lol. If headers are last, leave the mtr mt bolts loose,lol. There was more than once that I thought the eng.stand wud just break in half when rotating!

 

[oldbee]

Ohhhh- torque... Intake & rockers definitely; mtr mts,starter,exh (?) I trust my “clicker” arm&forearm just as good, never failed yet!