We finally got to the moment of truth this weekend. Fired up the 239 for the first time and it runs like a top. We ran it at idle for about ten minutes. Then ran it for a couple of hours static at different RPM's. Then we drove it around the patch a few times. Oil pressure 45 and running around 187 deg. I think grampa's going to be surprised when he gets home this week. There are a few bugs[another post] but I'm happy with the results. I'd like to thank everyone on this forum for all the advice and info. It has made this rebuild easier. I hope post some pics once I get time and figure out how to do it. It has been great family project.

 

Rite on, Now that's a feeling I think we can all relate to, "Hearing a motor come to life", no matter how many times you have been thru it, there is always that little doubt in the back of your mind that instantly turns to the warm and fuzzies when it starts. Congratulations.

 

Congrats Kristy! Any pictures of it to show us?

Good luck on the other bugs.

 

Congrats! But avoid extended idling until you get it properly broken in, driving moderately on the road. There isn't much oil splash at idle to keep lifters and cam oiled.