5.0liter_rice_eater

So, I picked up a 1972 Q-Code 4v 351c to drop in my 1986 GT. The shortblock had been balanced, blue-printed, bored .30 over, etc. Basically a complete machine shop freshening up, but that was 7 years prior to me purchasing it.

Last night I disassembled the short block to make sure everything was in good order still. I marked each piston's orientation in the block (arrow pointing foward), and scribed a line in the base of the rods and caps to keep them paired.

However, i forgot to number the pistons to remember which cylinder they belong to... Basically what i am trying to find out is can i put it back together (possibly mixed up order) without it shaking itself apart when i fire it up? Or do i need to take somewhere to have it re-balanced? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks guys.

Duncan_GT

My shop told me it doesnt matter. However, mine is internally balanced. I believe as long as the bob weight stays the same, you are good to go

rmodel65

if its truly balanced then they should be close enough to be smooth probably smoother than any factory assembled mass produced engine

89fiveeight

Just make damn sure they're facing the right direction, especially if you have valve relief pistons

5.0liter_rice_eater

Thanks for your help guys. Luckily I marked them for the direction. The pistons are cut so I'm going to have to make sure they are correct to clear the cam I plan on running. Thanks again.