Thread: 302 'clone' piston help?

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Factory spec for all Small Block blocks is 9.025".
Piston manufacturers use a deck figure of 9.000".
You might indeed encounter a block with a different deck. That's why you hear about fellows milling the deck of the block to achieve the proper piston to head dimension (squish). Aftermarket pistons are usually shorter from the crown to the centerline of the pin to accomodate this milling and allow for it. That's why you must be extremely vigilant in measuring everything before assembly.

Thanks again techinspector1. That explains why some aftermarket economy pistons are sometimes a big disappointment,performance wise. Guess I'll need to try and match the 68-69 302 compression height and compression ratio then,but thats something the machine shop can work with in decking,and myself with head gasket and piston design.Thanks.

AAAANNNNDDDDD,,,,HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! So good to know there are older and wiser minds here to give us 'kids' good hotrod info.,I'm only 52, still wet behind the ears.