Unlike many other makes, Pontiac V-8 bolt holes do not extend into the water jacket, so no thread sealer is required during installation. Cylinder head bolt holes are drilled and tapped through the deck surface and into individual bosses within the water jacket walls. The deck surface is very thick and rigid. The basic block features a relatively tall deck height of 10.24 inches, which is measured from the crankshaft centerline to the deck. Depending upon the application, Pontiac sometimes ground off several or all of these numbers and stamped others into place. The block casting number contains several digits and, depending on the year, is sometimes found on the passenger’s side of the block or at the rear of the block on a ledge near the number-8 cylinder. Included among them are revised engine mounting points, transmission bellhousing bolt pattern, starter location, main bearing diameter, and cooling system differences. A number of changes occurred during the course of its production run, however, and some limit component interchange. The Pontiac V-8 block is constructed of cast iron, and though its displacement increased from 287 to 455 ci by enlarging bore and lengthening stroke over the years, the external dimensions didn’t waiver far from the original design. If you're planning to rebuild an engine you've already got, or you're considering a Pontiac V-8 purchase in the near future, there are some important engine block, crankshaft, and connecting rod information you should be aware of. The traditional Pontiac V-8 engine's short block has some unique characteristics.

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