8 ba

[Mike Mayer]

I re boilt my 8 ba when I installed the 6th piston the motor was hard to turn . After the 7th and 8ththe motor is locked up . I used a 3 foot pipe wrench and could not budge it . My thoughts are to tear it down and stsrt over.

 

[KiWinUS]

Did you check clearances prior to assembly

 

[19Fordy]

Plastigage is your friend.
https://www.bing.com/search?q=plast...EDSAQgzMTY5ajBqNKgCCLACAQ&FORM=ANAB01&PC=HCTS

Also, check to make sure you have the correct size main and connecting rod bearings.

 

[GB SISSON]

If bearing clearance checks out, look at piston ring end gap.

 

[Kurt in NJ]

The rods should be able to wiggle a little on the crankshaft and if it is the bearings loosening the rod caps a little should enable rotation otherwise there is probably a ring/ piston fit problem

 

[Bored&Stroked]

While you obviously have an issue on these last four cylinders, you really need to take the whole thing apart and check all your clearances, ring end-gaps, etc.. You are correct in taking it all down at this point.

You should never have to rotate the assembly with a big bar - never. If it is that tight, something is wrong and you need to know why.

Did you mic your crankshaft journals and check bearing clearances at any time? Was all the work done at one machine shop . . . or did your "piece it together" from parts/work from multiple places?

 

[Ggmac]

Mike , I don’t know your location, if near me Id be glad to help .