If my memory still serves (questionable), the 327 block with 4 bolt mains was the main reason for setting up with 4" bore x 3" stroke for the 5 liter engines. TRACO had a lot of problems with cracking around the main webs using the 2 bolt blocks, even some of the 4 bolt blocks cracked. As I mentioned before, if the 300 Below process had been available back then, a lot of blocks and heads might not have adorned the scrap pile.
I think the earlier stamped metal rocker covers were used a lot because of the oil bafflels welded into them. Chevy came up with hollow push rods where the oil was pumped through, then just about any rocker covers would suffice and style became more of an issue.
I don't remember the exact Grey paint used, but it was chosen by Jim & Frank and mixed to their spec. The cans were marked TRACO GREY by the supplier. One of the reasons for using it was the ability to easily see any sort of "Leak" on the engine.
Pigpen
Hello everyone. I haven't been here for a while but I just found this TRACO thread and have been enjoying it for the last couple of ours. I too am a HUGE fan of TRACO, actually owned the TRACO-built 427 out of the Roger Penske 66 Corvette Sebring winner a few years ago (the engine that was in the car when it was vintage raced in early 90's), but I sold it to Jim Mangione in CA. I retired from Sherwin Williams a few years ago, but I have a friend who still works in the color lab and he has computer matched the TRACO grey using an original painted piece I had. Yeah, Sherwin Williams makes automotive paint too, not just house paint. The color is dead on and it is a urethane quality so it's very durable. I'll see if he can get me the formula.
I still have a few parts that came from the TRACO shop.......a couple of the degreed balancers and some 0 - (0 dash) prototype parts, Can Am aluminum blocks, etc.
GREAT thread here !!!!!
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Well, at the urging of someone on another forum, I have finally gotten the Sherwin Williams formula for TRACO Gray. It is in the attachment. Just take this formula to your local SW automotive store and they should be able to mix you a pint or whatever quantity you need. PLEASE note, this formulation is a two component coating and the catalyst contains some pretty serious materials, so PLEASE wear the proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), respirator, mask, gloves, etc, etc. Read the directions and MSDS before spraying this paint. Not trying to scare anyone away, I just know these modern highly durable coatings can be dangerous if not used properly. Hope this helps all you TRACO nuts (yeah, I'm one too).
