1. Disassembly:
* Engine Removal: The engine must be removed from the vehicle.
* Complete Teardown: The entire engine needs to be disassembled. This includes removing the heads, intake manifold, oil pan, timing chain/belt, pistons, connecting rods, and crankshaft. Careful documentation (photos and diagrams) is crucial.
* Block Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the engine block to remove any debris or contaminants.
2. Component Selection and Machining:
* Crankshaft: A longer-stroke crankshaft is the heart of the stroker build. The stroke length will determine the final displacement. Common options include 3.75", 4.00", or even longer. This requires careful consideration of piston-to-valve clearance.
* Connecting Rods: Connecting rods must be lengthened or replaced to accommodate the longer stroke crankshaft. The rod length is critical to maintain proper piston geometry and prevent rod knock.
* Pistons: Custom pistons are usually necessary. They must have the correct compression height to work with the longer stroke and maintain the desired compression ratio. Piston-to-valve clearance is crucial and often requires machining of the cylinder heads.
* Cylinder Head Machining: This often involves milling the cylinder heads to increase the clearance between the pistons and valves. This step is essential to avoid catastrophic engine failure.
* Block Machining: Depending on the stroke and piston selection, the block may require machining to ensure proper piston-to-wall clearance and to accommodate the larger connecting rods (e.g., clearancing the block).
3. Assembly:
* Bottom End Assembly: Assemble the crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons with the correct bearing clearances. This is a very precise process requiring specialized tools and knowledge.
* Top End Assembly: Reinstall the heads, ensuring proper gasket sealing and valve adjustment.
* Engine Reassembly: Reassemble all other components, including the intake manifold, oil pan, timing chain/belt, etc.
4. Balancing:
* Crankshaft Balancing: The crankshaft and rotating assembly (pistons, connecting rods) should be dynamically balanced to ensure smooth operation and prevent vibrations. This is critical for engine longevity.
5. Verification and Testing:
* Clearances: Double-check all clearances (piston-to-valve, piston-to-wall, bearing clearances) to ensure everything is within specification.
* Engine Break-in: After assembly, the engine must be properly broken in to allow the components to seat correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Displacement Calculation: The final displacement will be significantly larger than the original 350 cubic inches (5.7L). The exact displacement depends on the stroke length and bore size.
* Compression Ratio: The stroke length affects the compression ratio. This needs to be carefully chosen to suit the application (street, racing, etc.) and fuel type.
* Cost: Stroking a 350 is expensive, involving the cost of parts, machining, and potentially professional labor.
Again, this is a complex procedure best left to experienced engine builders. Improper execution can result in catastrophic engine failure. If you're considering this modification, consult with a reputable engine builder to discuss your goals and ensure the project is completed safely and correctly.
