Wanted: 261 Chevrolet engine

[Phil Waterman]

Hi All

Sorry for going off topic on Chris's search for a 261, but now as the discussion is here. Bob Carriere asked about putting speedi-sleeve on the rear crank seal area. Below are two photos from the rebuild on the 235 engine. Think they sort of explain the problem, even after having the crank journals and seal areas ground to the rebuild specks the rear seal area front and rear still had pits visible. The front crank seal speedi-sleeve is a standard repair part carried by NAPA the rear is an issue of measuring the seal diameter and ordering a speed-sleeve and driving it on.

W 235 4-08 lower end 017.jpg W 235 4-11-08 lower end # 003.jpg

It can be done with the engine in place by loosening the main to allow a little clearance same procedure as given for replacing the seal rope. But I recommend doing it with the engine out and upside down. Remove the flywheel and then drive the sleeve on using the drive cup that comes with it. The sleeve has a grove in it so that once in place you clip the driving flange and it can be carefully pealed off.

Cheers Phil

PS-Wondering should we create a new thread with all the tech-tips to keep them together and let this thread be more pure about finding a 261 for Chris?


PPS- I've started inquiries down here looking for a 261 or 235 from somebody who might have one stashed away.