I am moderately well versed on 409s. I’ve forgotten more than I remember. But I’m not where the Z-11 parts are and unable to assist firsthand. That is why I’m asking for the information to help them locate everything. It’s easier to tell them what to look for than what not to look for.
Roger that. I would seriously lay all of the small pieces out on a bench like this old 409 ad. Don't let the clutter in boxes confuse you. That way you can match up parts and pieces in groups. Then you will clearly be able to see what you are missing along with which parts you need to do more research on. If you intend on building the girl and bring it back to life, then all "wear parts" should be replaced. In these engines, that includes rods, head/main cap bolts at the very least. Don't be too worried about the little parts too because the condition of your intake, heads, block are the most important. If those are cracked or damaged from setting around, then the little parts will be irrelevant. Getting valves, push rods, springs or any other small part isn't hard. Cracked block/ heads could turn the race motor into an expensive art piece. Spread those pieces out on a table and group them up. Easier said then done I know, I rarely get to lay out my parts like I should. You should probably go ahead and change the name of this main post when you are ready to chat more about your project. Keeping all of your questions/answers in one location on this project is no different then those parts in boxes. Scatter them out over different posts and you will loose track of important details and contacts. I am certain many of our best and brightest have reached out to you with their contact information.
