New EJ257 engine in the making

After getting used to the Beast and its 400+ horsepower, I had sent the spare block and heads off to the machine shop. In the meantime, whilst they are marching and preparing the closed deck block for me, I decided to dig out my spare crankshaft that was stored in the deepest, darkest part of the garage. 

I had put some light grease on it after removal, so first job was to remove the grease with shop towels, then use plenty of brake cleaner to clean the metal and bring it back to a decent state. The grease really helped to protect the metal surfaces for the 4 years it spent under my workbench. 

Using two sets of measuring instruments, I took 3 sets of readings to get a good average measurement. The first set was a very loose value using the Vernier callers. The second were far more accurate, using the 50mm-75mm external micrometer. 

The best way to get accurate readings, regardless of the instrument, is repeatability so I took 3 "good", precise measurements on each crank journal for the main crank bearings and also the connecting rod journals. Once I purchase so new bearings, I'll be able to measure the bearings in the engine as part of the "dry" test assembly. Once thats done, I can then use the bearings internal bore size and compare it to these crank readings to determine the oil clearance for each journal. 

Main points I was checking for tonight were a good shiny, clean surface, and if there are any scratch marks. If you do find a catch, run your nail over it....if you can't feel it stick with your nail, your good to go!