Recommendations for Engine Rebuilder in central Connecticut

[Dan M.]

I have decided to try and hasten the rebuild of my 68 327/300 engine and rather than attack it myself, I want to have it rebuilt by someone who knows what they are doing and "get-er-done".

1968 327/300 engine. I was told when I bought it in 1987 that it was recently "rebuilt" but it appears never to have been decked as the numbers are still there. I've never had either head off to check bores. I have virtually every piece necessary to completely rebuild including correct dated 1 year only Q-jet carb and an NOS GM replacement steel crank (if needed).

Looking for recommendations on an engine rebuilder in the central CT area. I do not want drag strip type power but rather a solid "stock" rebuild that I can drop back in and drive and not worry about for many years.

Thanks in advance.

[Gene M.]

Re: Recommendations for Engine Rebuilder in central Connecticut

Dan,
I do not know of rebuilders in your state but I shall give you a piece of advice. Have a good machine shop (engine rebuilder) do only the pressure check, cleaning, machining work, press work, freeze plugs, cam bearings, and balancing. I suggest YOU check all parts for size and fit and perform the assembly work yourself so you know every thing is correct. Including the rings.

When I deliver the disassembled engine to them I secure a thick right angle steel bracket over the stamping on the deck (use a water pump thread hole) with the instruction to NOT REMOVE IT. Many shops use shot to clean the block and it destroys the machined broach marks. Liberals all but eliminated solvent cleaning tanks.

[Ridge K.]

Re: Recommendations for Engine Rebuilder in central Connecticut

Dan,
I do not know of rebuilders in your state but I shall give you a piece of advice. Have a good machine shop (engine rebuilder) do only the pressure check, cleaning, machining work, press work, freeze plugs, cam bearings, and balancing. I suggest YOU check all parts for size and fit and perform the assembly work yourself so you know every thing is correct. Including the rings.

When I deliver the disassembled engine to them I secure a thick right angle steel bracket over the stamping on the deck (use a water pump thread hole) with the instruction to NOT REMOVE IT. Many shops use shot to clean the block and it destroys the machined broach marks. Liberals all but eliminated solvent cleaning tanks.

Excellent tips, Gene.
We've all heard the horror stories of decked blocks, etc.
And I agree that many shops are trying to do work that helps pay for high-dollar investments in shop equipment (hardened valve seats for example).

Ridge

[Gary R.]

Re: Recommendations for Engine Rebuilder in central Connecticut

I'm in CT and can give you advice in the New Haven Area. I'll PM you my number.

[Bill E.]

Re: Recommendations for Engine Rebuilder in central Connecticut

Hi Dan, I have had excellant results with Mild to Wild in Orange, Ct., 203-397-3495. You are likely to fine anything from nanny cars to off-road racers, corvettes and cobras. One time they were working on a school bus, I guess they wanted to get the kids to school on time. The owner is Rocco DeAngelis, he does the Wild side. There is a family relationship with a major machine shop for the heavy duty work. Not cheap but fair and honest. Good luck, Bill

[Dan M.]

Re: Recommendations for Engine Rebuilder in central Connecticut

Thanks for the feedback received guys.

Gary I will call you about several parts you do work on and I need your help on making right.