I have the following progress:
1. Installed the camshaft bearings. This time I used the machine shop to do so, but I purchased the bearing driver, so the next engine I'll do it myself.
2. Installed the camshaft. Need to use 3 long bolts to hold it while installation. Lubricated the bearings with the assembly lube.
3. Freeze plugs. Can use the socket of the right size as a driver.
3. Main crankshaft bearings. Some people advised to lube the block and caps inside with a little lube, while other said to never do so. just cleaned them up and inserted the bearings.
4. Crankshaft. Lubed the bearings well.
5. Timing gear. Retaining thrust plate. For the timing gear had to align both gears using the dots on both, while putting on the chain.
6. Timing cover with the gasket.
7. Piston rings (gapped, they were all up to specs).
8. Pistons. When putting the pistons the bolts on the push rods covered with the protective covers not to scratch the crankshaft lobes.
9. Rear main seal, drove it into the seal retainer with an appropriate side metal driver. It goes with the gasket.
10. Oil pump. Had to use the original pickup and shaft. To remove the pickup, tightened up an old pump in the wice and tapped it gently with the rubber mallet sideways to shift it left and right, then pulled it out. To remove the shaft, had to use the wrench to pry the nylon connector off. Installation was easier, did it by gently tapping the shaft.
11. Oil pan and oil pan gasket. No difficulties here.
That is where I am at now. All the bolts are tightened up to the torque specs.
