Mopar Small-Block LA-Series Engines How to Rebuild & David Vizard's How To Port & Flow Test Cylinder Heads 2 Book Set

Learn to rebuild a Mopar LA-series small-block engine with this handy how-to guide . The Mopar LA-series engine is a small-block V-8 that powered various Chrysler, Plymouth, and Dodge vehicles from 1964 to 1992. This engine replaced the A-series engine (“LA” stands for“Light A”) in most models, as the original A-series engine was phased out in 1967. Initially introduced with a displacement of 273ci, the 318- and 340-ci (the performance version) engines arrived in 1967 and 1968, respectively. Eventually, the 340-ci engine grew to 360 ci and was tamed down as emissions became more of a concern. In 1992, Chrysler released the Magnum version of the LA-series engine as a 318-ci 5.2L powerplant to further address those emissions issues. The 360-ci engine became a 5.9L Mag-num in 1993.

This book focuses exclusively on the rebuilding of the LA-series engine (pre-Magnum) from 1964 to 1992. Veteran author and former Chrysler engineer Larry Shepard walks you through the process of a complete engine rebuild using step-by-step instructions and more than 500 photos. The required tools and a thorough diagnosis to determine if the engine truly needs a rebuild are included. Disassembly, analysis, and inspection of which parts can be saved and which must be replaced, parts selection (OEM or aftermarket), machining, reassembly, and engine break-in are covered. All systems and parts are examined, including the block, cylinder heads, cams, valvetrain, rotating assembly, induction system, and exhaust.

If you are restoring a Dart, Valiant, Duster, Barracuda, or Dodge truck, or you simply want to know how to rebuild this engine, Shepard guides you every step of the way.

Porting heads is an art and science. It takes a craftsman's touch to shape the surfaces of the head for the optimal flow characteristics and the best performance. Porting demands the right tools, skills, and application of knowledge. Few other engine builders have the same level of knowledge and skill porting engine heads as David Vizard. All the aspects of porting stock as well as aftermarket heads in aluminum and cast-iron constructions are covered. Vizard goes into great depth and detail on porting aftermarket heads. Starting with the basic techniques up to more advanced. In addition, you are also shown how to build a high-quality flow bench at home so you can test your work and obtain professional results. 

Vizard shows how to optimize flow paths through the heads, past the valves, and into the combustion chamber. The book covers blending the bowls, a basic porting procedure, and also covers pocket porting, porting the intake runners, and many advanced procedures. These advanced procedures include unshrouding valves, porting a shortside turn of the port down toward the valve seat, and developing the ideal port area and angle. All of these changes combine to produce optimal flow velocity through the engine for maximum power. 

• This in-depth guide provides insight and instruction for maximizing performance of engine heads as well as how to avoid making costly mistakes that could ruin a head. 
• This is the only book ever published covering the specific techniques of head building and porting. 
• Vizard is a master at porting heads and the engines he has built and ported have won a multitude of races; amateur to professional engine builders will find this information to be very valuable. 
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About the Author 

Over a storied 50-year career, David Vizard has built race winning engines and cars. A renowned engine builder, engineer, and author, Vizard has penned nearly 4,000 magazine articles and 30 books. Currently, he owns and runs MotorTec Magazine in Charlotte, North Carolina.