I finally got around to checking piston compression and got <90 PSI on all cylinders… It could be that my compression checking tool was off, but given that the exhaust was whitish and spark plugs (at least two of them, see picture below) had a good amount of white residue on them, I am certainly suspecting a blown gasket or even a cracked head.
spark-plugs.jpg
What I have:
- what looks like a completely stock 1988 Doge Ram 50 Sport with 225K miles on it (with an exception of aftermarket lights installed on front and back bumpers — that’s gotta go)
- G54B 2.6L engine
- 5 speed MT
- Sport/maxi cab (yay!)
I want to make it run well as a daily driver with reasonable mods that make sense to do while the engine is out and other parts need to be replaced, even preemptively to save time in the future.
So, my first — and most important — question is: are there any reasons for NOT rebuilding a G54B block? In other words, should I invest money into a different block and rebuild it instead? I have a limited budget, but I hate to do/pay for things twice.
If it makes sense to stick to G54B, anything extra I should invest in at the machine shop (i.e., three-angled valve job) or do myself while the engine is pulled apart (i.e., port intake/exhaust)?
Reading the forums, I have also compiled a to-do list I am thinking about:
- do a complete tuneup and install MCA Jet Valve elimination kit as per New Owner sticky thread (worth paying for premium parts recommendations?)
- replace water pump
- replace oil pump
- install timing chain kit (recommendations?)
- install Weber 32/36 (to replace a dying Mikuni)
- install electric fuel pump
- install relay to turn pump off if engine cuts off unexpectedly
- delete mechanical pump
- replace clutch (recommendations?)
- replace ignition coil (recommendations?)
- possibly install a header (recommendations?)
I guess I am in for a good amount of money, but is there anything else I should budget for now in conjunction with engine rebuild?
OR…. should I cut my losses and invest into a younger fuel injected little truck if I plan to keep it for a while?
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