Expert: Kevin Pilotte - 7/31/2008

Question
Couple of questions for you.

I had my whole engine rebuilt about 4 years ago, it was bored out .030 over, referring to one of your posts a while back, a 360 (bore 4.08) is basically just a bored out 304 (3.75); so is my bore now 4.05 or 3.78?

Had my trans rebuilt (automatic borg warner 998?) and the thing CONSTANTLY leaks transfluid.  Its not a bad leak but still annoying, had the seal replaced a few times.

Having carb overheating problems, looking into a phenolic 1'' spacer 4 hole tapered (have 1.5'' of clearance).  Have an edelbrock performer dual plane intake, 500cfm edelbrock carb.  Just wanted to catch your opinion on it.
example:
http://www.straightline-perf.com/categories/induction-components/products/produc...

Also was looking into headers, what do you think of these?
Hedman 98310.

http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?part=HED%2D98310&view=1&N=700+40014...

Thanks for your input, hard to find an educated opinion on AMCs.

Answer
1) .030" over would leave you a bore of 3.780". That makes your engine 309 C.I.D.
2) Where is the transmission leaking? If it is the pan, it can be snugged down or if necessary, removed and sealed. If it is a front pump seal or tail shaft seal, it should be replaced. If it is the speedometer cable, you can replace the "O" ring.
3) Anything you can do to insulate the carburetor from the heat of the engine will help. Also, a 600 cfm carb would work well.
3) The hedders you chose are pretty good. Be sure you include exhaust pipes that are at least 2 1/2" in diameter along with quality low restriction mufflers. i.e. Flowmasters.