I totally agree with the shimming and measuring approaches that everyone is promoting... it has worked great for me in the past. I only have one question... why "almost" bash a Ford 390??? Talk about the set and forget valve train!Okay, the 16MPG is really lousy on the freeway but you get all kinds of torque!

Current Garage: 65 Ford T-Bird Special Landau 65K original miles restored 390 Engine, 1990 240DL sedan, restored 25K (180K actual)miles, 1992 240 Wagon 235K miles, 93 Jeep Cherokee 135K miles (anybody want to buy my mistake), 56 Buick Special 30K miles, 69 Ford Galaxy 29K miles all original, 28 Chevy 4 door with crank start and 18K miles (it would have more miles on it but the sucker ripped my shoulder out once!), 2000 Mitsu Eclipse GS 32K miles with custom turbo and handling package, John Deere LX255. You might think that this eclectic collection shows a lack of brand loyalty, you are wrong... the last two cars purchased were the 240DL sedan and the 240 Wagon, these were number 2 and 3. Volvo Number 1 was destroyed in it's line of duty by giving it's life while saving the life of my Wife and our Boxer Reilly during a massive accident, my Wife is a Volvo for Life member. Volvo #1's Drivetrain is actually in Volvo #2 now. A clearance sale may be coming soon... thinking about the ultimate Chevy Nomad (Volvo Wagon based) killer!

jorrell