ok looks like the ARP main stud kit will NOT work with the pre98 zetec. the main caps are just too big. looks like i will have to find a set of main cap bolts somewhere
I was afraid of that. Could you get the main caps machines down on the side so that the main bolts will work? Either that or contact ARP to see how much that they would want to make you a custom set the right length.
i dont want to machine the caps and i dont want to wait for ARP to try to make me some. i just spoke with ford and they said the original bolts are discontinued thankfully they confirmed what i has hoping for in that they are not torque to yield bolts and can be reused.
well as of monday night the piston/rod assemblies, crank, oil pump, waterpump, and oil baffle and pickup are on and torqued. hopefully the head will be done today and i can pick it up and at least get it torqued down.
for those wondering i used focus rods, pistons, and bearings with no problems. it takes maybe 5 ft/lbs of torque to spin the assembly. its soo smooth
yes the manifold made it just fine, although i still have to figure out the best way to cut the flange off. i will get some pics of the assembled bottom end and completely (minus accessories) assembled this weekend
It still needs the front and rear main seals and the oil pan installed but other wise the lower end is finished. i talked with the machine shop today and he said he should have my head ready by monday.
The only thing I would say (besides SWEET) is you might have wanted to spend an extra ~$50 and had the piston tops de-burred. The sharp machined edges of the valve reliefs on the pistons could lead to hot spots and pre-detonation.