My '75 Scamp 383 Build

If the rest of the cam lobes look like those pictured, the cam is worn but good. That's a good sign and probably means the engine was in decent shape.

Regarding my machining recommendations, I know you've seen me say a lot that millions of engines from Chrysler ran many miles and years with tall and crooked decks, just like they left the factory, and it's true. Certainly, that's a corner that you can cut. But, If you were EVER going to do it, NOW'S THE TIME. Know what I mean Vern? You're only looking at 150-200 more dollars. I know, there I go throwin your money around again. I'm sorry. I don't mean to. I'm just trying to help you get the best product, even for a budget engine.

I stand firm on my recommendations regarding replacing the rod bolts and resizing the rods though. That's a corner I simply would not cut, even if I had to save up (and I do) the money for it. I have my 198 rods and new pistons and ARP rod bolts all in a milk crate right now ready to go, but lack the money to do it. Saving for Kitty's surgery. I mean........how bad would it suck for an old rod bolt to break and cost you the whole engine? Even if it's a budget build, now it becomes twice as expensive as it WAS.

The main journals seem in spec, how bout the rod journals?