Expert: Kevin Pilotte - 2/20/2010

Question
Think that I put the distributor in 180 out. Turned engine over, backfired while starter was engaged, nine teeth missing from flexplate. Will it be easier to replace flexplate by removing transmission or engine? It's been sitting for four years after buying it and driving a couple of weeks (wouldn't restart after short drive... electrical problem, another time) Questions: 1. Pull tranny or engine? 2. How to check engine condition (compression check)if I can't turn over by starter (missing teeth) 3. Should I just pull the engine/tranny out together and do a rebuild? (teardown and inspect?) 4. Point me in the direction of a performance build-up for a 1974 360? I read a bunch of your answers to posts on this site, and am anxiously waiting for your sage advice!

Answer
If it has been sitting for 4 years and you would like to do some performance modifications, I would pull the engine and refresh it.
If you have the funds, a complete overhaul would be in order. Rings, bearings, clean up the cylinders, valve job, etc.
The easiest mods to do at that stage is 1) aluminum dual plane intake 2) mild cam 3) quality headers 4) HD timing chain %26 gear 4) upgrade the ignition system 5) install studs in the heads for the rocker arms, 74 engines had aluminum rocker bridges which don't work well with a cam.
Oh, don't forget to replace the flex plate.