So, I am currently rebuilding a 305 out of a 79 Camaro. I was told it was running before hand, so for $50 I got the engine, carb to pan, all the way to the Saginaw 3 speed. Upon tear down of the engine I found that you could still see the crosshatches from a previous 0.030" over bore on 95% of the cylinder walls. Took my calipers and confirmed this, it is 0.030" over the stock bore diameter.

I have done most of the reconditioning already and I have 1 major question.

Since I am working on an already rebuilt engine, is it really necessary to replace the pistons and camshaft? I figured there is no reason to replace them if they aren't worn down or damaged. Not to mention that the vehicle I would have a chance to put it in has to pass emissions.

Opinions?

 

You do not have to do anything to it but the 79 305 is only rated at 130 HP and 235 FT.

There is not a lot you can do to the 305 heads from that era but the low compression piston and small cam are the main reason for its low power numbers.

 

now is the time to zero deck the block ,and add a set of flat top pistons.find a set of "416" heads and have them ported. a nice comp cams cam is in order too.dont go too wild with the cam and you can have a nice performing 305 that will pass smog testing