Winter off season project engine compartment “clean up” and engine repaint.

[Plyrr471]

Thank you T2R9, kind of you to say.

 

[Don Frelier]

I would suggest pulling the engine your not far from it.

 

[Plyrr471]

The though had occurred to me Don, as I’ve done it before, but I’d have to secure a stand and hoist, plus I’d be afraid of beating up my paint. I just finished removing all I’m going to remove, got starter, headers, and water pump and housing out. I may pull the distributer as well.
Quick question for the group, replace the water pump, or not? No weep hold but you can see traces of a minor leak. Bearings feel firm. Maybe weak gasket or bolt backed off a bit? Should I Permatex the next gasket?

 

[Don Frelier]

If you pull the distributor be sure to take a picture of the rotor position first.
I take a utility blade or something sharp and carve a line on both the distributor and the block.
If you do both it will be timed exactly as is today.

If you pull it you can simply block off the carb opening, tape off the ports and powerwash the thing.
It's a good start to prepping for cleaning.

 

[Plyrr471]

10-4 on all of that Don. Thank you. I thing I may drop it off the lift and push the car out a few feet out onto the driveway, and degrease and power wash right there. Weather permitting. I’ll keep my progress updated here. Thanks.
Btw, replace the water pump, or just the gasket?

 

[RRGTX]

Very Nice car! Good luck with your project. I am doing the same project with my 71 Charger this winter. I have one flex plate bolt not breaking loose. Should have the motor out and on the stand tomorrow.

 

[Plyrr471]

Nice, keep us informed on your progress.

 

[Schultz64]

Personally I would replace the water pump now when everything is apart. Not terribly expensive and it sure beats having to go back after everything is cleaned up to do it again. Keep the update pics coming. Looks excellent!