[Diy_efi] building an LS7

[Steve Ravet]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: diy_efi-bounces at diy-efi.org 
> [mailto:diy_efi-bounces at diy-efi.org] On Behalf Of Rob Weinstock
> Sent: Thursday, May 26, 2005 3:50 PM
> To: diy_efi at diy-efi.org
> Subject: RE: [Diy_efi] building an LS7
> 
> >Every engine is hand built by a master assembler, whose name 
> is on a tag
> >on the block.  Every bolt is torqued with a computer 
> controlled torque
> >wrench.  Pick up a bolt, scan the barcode, and the computer
> >automatically sets the proper torque.  There's no head tightening
> >sequence, because the machine that installs heads tightens 
> all 15 bolts
> >at the same time.  Supposedly if part like a main bearing 
> cap is dropped
> >the whole motor is scrapped.  It takes about 4 hours to assemble a
> >motor, and the plant capacity is 30 motors per week.
> 
> Only 3 builders? Sounds very different than GM's mass 
> production approach 
> typically used.

I'm sure it is.  The amazing thing is that this project hasn't been
killed, depite the losses that GM continues to incur.  Bob Lutz recently
killed the Zeta platform which would have brought back the Camaro and
Firebird as rear wheel performance vehicles.  It's hard to believe that
the low volume of the Z06 will pay for it's development effort and this
huge new facility.  The article said the production line could be
expanded to produce up to 45 motors/day.

--steve