Reader's Tech Tips - June 2008

Drag TipMy 311-inch small block Chevy was pushing a slight amount of oil out the valve cover breathers, probably because I used a high-volume oil pump and turned the engine to 7,000 rpm. Installation of the third breather (shown above) solved the problem. I was already using an electric fuel pump so this was a natural for me, and it makes sense because the engine was breathing through the same holes that are draining oil back to the pan from the valve covers. I'm using 1964 Corvette heads so I don't have the large cutouts in the heads.John Zimmerman1968 Chevy NovaDrag Racer

Quick Toe CheckFor a quick toe-in check, paint a 1.8-inch line halfway across the top of the spindle and onto the axle on both sides. If the line lines up, the toe is okay. If the lines don't match, the toe in is out.Al RitenourChillicothe, Ohio

Moving More AirAfter three years trying to keep my 400 small block cool, I fi nally found/ made a shroud that works. I have used shrouds from the junkyard, aftermarket racing shrouds, homemade shrouds and all had problems plus did not move enough air.

Solution: I use a 31-inch radiator with a 15-inch steel fan. I bought an aftermarket shroud for a 15-inch fan Spindle Axle and it left a 11/2-inch gap between the fan and the plastic enclosure and at high rpm it shreds the plastic. I removed the plastic and replaced it with a nine-gallon metal horse pail from Home Depot. I ran it all last season with cool temperatures and no problems. Plus, you can use the rest of the pail for changing your oil.Brad DorseyThunder Raceway, Show Low, AZ1987 Monte Carlo Pro Stock

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