Before the front suspension components could be installed the top of the frame had to be painted. Earlier in the week Eastwood's Rust Encapsulator was applied followed by a satin top coat. It looks very good.
In order to compress and install the coil springs the weight of the motor must be on the chassis. Before I could install the motor I had to complete the installation of the 6 quart oil pan which includes the installation of a windage tray. This tray comes with 5 special bolts that replace the standard crank cap journal bolts. In this picture I am verifying which of the main cap bolts must be removed.
The 5 special bolts for the windage tray are installed in this picture. The windage tray also uses one of the oil pump bolts. If you look close at the bolt pattern it looks like one bolt is missing. This empty hole is for the dip stick.
The 6 quart oil pan also uses a unique oil pump screen as see on the right. This screen is so unique that most auto parts stores will tell you than Chevy only made one screen for the 327, the one on the left. Fortunately I had the correct one and it's in good condition.
The 6 quart oil pan is installed and the motor is ready for the frame.
Dennis K. lent me his engine hoist and it worked perfect. Thanks Dennis. In this picture you can see the A arms are installed but lack coil springs.
With the motor bolted to the frame I was able to compress the coil springs and install the front axles. The steering linkage, Pittman arm, gear box and idler arm will be next. Stay tuned for more assembly.
