found: 427so block and components

[lineslinger]

I found a 427so block, #C7AE-A bored .30 over. I believe this block is a '67.
I plan on a magnaflux test. Can you guys give me some recomendations on what I need to look for to make sure this is a healthy side-oiler?
Everything else is there, heads, cam, crank, intake maniflod for a dual quad, Lemans rods, valve train. Will the use of original parts to the block enhance the overall engine value?
I think I might finally go for it, the price is too good to pass up. Owner is retired machinist who has decided to move some engine goods he has been holding for "too long" as he puts it.
Opinions? Thoughts? All input appreciated.

Mark

[Cracker]

It was nice talking with you last week! Contrary to what some might say around here - there's nothing exactly liike an original side-oiler, go for it! Just curious since we don't know this fella - what's the price?

[lineslinger]

Hi Cracker, good to hear from you. For a complete original component 427ci engine he wants six grand. He has quite a few 427 blocks as well as some 428's.
An original 427so block, with original factory bore, he is asking $2900. He can also supply all the necessary components to build this out as an original engine if desired.
He also has a completely assembled engine recently overhauled with Lemans rods, edelbrock performer heads, steel crank, forged pistons etc. etc., asking price for that is $6500. I'm taking my questions, manuals, and checkbook back to his shop on Monday and hopefully I will be able swing a deal.
He's got a nice machine shop set up behind his house and I am considering him to build, balance and blueprint a short block for me. His shop is spotless, he is an "older" gentleman, (h*ll, I'm fifty next week) and quite meticulous about his work, it's easy to see. I'm still looking real hard at a Weber set up to finish off the induction end of this mill. We'll see how the cost factor on the bottom end comes out, thanks for the encouragement.

Mark

[TerribleTed13]

Mark,
Sounds like a good deal!! I like your idea about the webers too. Hope the engine will help make your dreams come true!
PS. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!

[clayfoushee]

His name wouldn't be John Turner would it? Sounds a lot like the guy who built my side-oiler, which has been flawless.

[lineslinger]

Terrible Ted13,
Thanks much for the kind thoughts and wishes. This is gonna be fun.
Mark

[lineslinger]

clayfoushee,
Nope, names not Turner. Where in Annapolis are you located? I've got family in southern Annapolis on the bay, about three miles by water south of the Naval Academy. I have more family on St. Michaels island also. Some beautiful old ships up your way.

[Turk]

Guys,
I caution you to to do due dilligence.
There hasn't been a Standard Bore Side Oiler Block for $2900.00 available for few years!!!

TURK

[lineslinger]

Thanks Turk,
I will stay alert.
I saw the block sitting on a wood platform wrapped in oil paper, owner said he would be happy to put a mic on it for me. If you have a standard bore block do you bore it for the extra HP or do you find the HP in other ways?

[Turk]

Considering std.bore Side Oiler blocks have sold upwards of $5000.00 on EBay etc. and also considering 30 over is the highest recommended bore, I for one would not bore it any more than absolutely necessary.

Talk to your engine builder, because some of these std. bore blocks due to numerous imperfections end up getting bored beyond std. bore just to clean up due to surface rust etc.

I bought a NOS Std. bore 427 Side Oiler Block, we ended up sleeving one cylinder in order NOT to bore it any more than necessay.

Good luck.

TURK

[clayfoushee]

Randy,

I agree with Turk, but you never know what you might find in someone's backyard.

BTW, I'm on the South River in Annapolis just off the Chesapeake Bay about the same distance from the Naval Academy that you described.

[FFR428]

Wow that's a great find and hope it all works out for you. Good luck, G.