Main and rod clearance

[PolaraFury]

Hello,

I have a 500 B block stroker I’m going to put together.

What is acceptable clearance range for my main journals and rod journals?

I don’t have micrometers so I’ll use plastigauge

thank you

 

[66Satellite47]

All depends. Rod & piston weight, intended RPM, bearing style, oil used. Never trusted plastigauge. True measurements are the way to go. Good luck.

 

[440Coronet500]

FSM is your best reference unless you're building a race engine! 440'

 

[66Satellite47]

FSM is your best reference unless you're building a race engine! 440'

It's a low deck stroker, not stock.

 

[beanhead]

Get it together and measure it, then report back..
Personally I don't like anything less than .002 on the mains even on a mild build. '500 stroker' I'd definitely be shooting for closer to .003 on the mains, .0028 rods somewhere in there.
A little loose is better than a little tight!

 

[PolaraFury]

Get it together and measure it, then report back..
Personally I don't like anything less than .002 on the mains even on a mild build. '500 stroker' I'd definitely be shooting for closer to .003 on the mains, .0028 rods somewhere in there.
A little loose is better than a little tight!

Thank you

 

[dvw]

Simple rule of thumb. .001/inch of journal diameter. Bigger won’t hurt a thing. Don’t go tighter. Plasigage is as good as the user. Is it perfect? No. But when journals are clean and dry and you don’t move anything around tightening it works pretty well. When I used to use it I placed feeler gauges between the rods to keep them from twisting. Do both rods on the same journal at the same time. I’ve seen plenty of people that can’t accurately use a mic either.
Doug

 

[Curiousyellow71]

Just beware of old plastigauge that won't crush and reads high.