Engine: Pistons and Pins

[jpmorgan]

I have a NOS set of Studebaker Pistons, part number 1553164. The boxes say piston & pin, however there is only the pistons inside with no pins. Perhaps at some time only the pins were used for another project. However, all 8 pistons are indeed new. What are the chances of being able to use these pistons with the old pins removed from the engine I presently have. Or should this never be done at all regardless of the old pin condition.

[StudeRich]

I would not use "Used" Pins on New Pistons in a rebuilt (expensive) engine.

You have a Set of '60-'62 .002 Oversize Pistons used on 289 engines. The Block/Bores will have to be Checked, Honed and fitted to them.
The Pins that fit those pistons are Std. Size 536243 ...Note: (NOT used on '63/'64 289's)

[PackardV8]

Agree, Rich, in a perfect world, new pistons come with new pins. In the shrinking world of NOS Stude parts, we'd measure, most likely find used pins within spec, put them together and never know the difference.

And it's always worth noting as you mentioned, there are early and late 289" pins as well as 259" pins. They all work, as long as the engine gets a new balance job; as should all rebuilds.

jack vines

[StudeRich]

My guess is: the '63/'64 289 Pistons have their own different Pins due to the "Slipper Skirts".

[64studeavanti]

I have reused piston pins in the rebuilds I have done. Only a couple were not in spec.

[jpmorgan]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I tend to agree about not using used pins on new pistons, however Studebaker International doesn't list any pins. I haven't checked all Studebaker parts suppliers, but I suspect that you can't buy pins separately anymore.

[StudeRich]

No not New replacements without spending $$$$ to have them Custom made, but they WERE in stock at a Lot of Corp. Warehouses and Dealers, so SOME NOS could still be out there, so check and ask.
NOW In SDC, we have over 200 Parts Vendors.

[BalkaRoo]

there are early and late 289" pins as well as 259" pins. They all work, as long as the engine gets a new balance job; as should all rebuilds.

jack vines

Does that mean that the tunnel in the rod is also a different size ?

[StudeRich]

ALL V8 Connecting Rods are the same 1951 to 1964.

[JoeHall]

The NOS, .002"OS pistons are more of an overhaul than rebuild, so I'd have no qualms using good used pins in those pistons. Wonder if there's a weight difference between early pins that were used with the earlier / heavier pistons, and the later ones. Even if so, as long as all 8 are the same, there should not be a problem.

[PackardV8]

Does that mean that the tunnel in the rod is also a different size ?

No, all V8 rods are the same ID.

jack vines