I am in the rebuild stage of my 3.8SC. I had all the block work done an I am getting ready to put it all back together. Any suggestions for HP? I already ordered a cam from seriesoneperformance.com I am also going to get a competition valve job on the heads. I'll take any suggestions.

Thanks

Get a SC pulley. What year? 2.2 for 92-93, 2.5 for 94-95. NGK TR55 plugs at .055" maybe .050. Make a CAI. Check out the rice pipe thread.

Scrub all parts thoroughly with soapy hot water and bristle brushes when they return from the machinist, then, dry them off and scrub them again. Assemble the engine on a stand and keep a trash bag over it when you're not working on it. Follow torque vales precisely, remembering that torque is always taken on a moving, lubricated bolt. !

Check everything once, twice, and a third time before proceeding to the next step in engine assembly. A good engine assembly lube is half STP and half 10w40. Put in in a dish detergent squeeze bottle and oil everything more than you think it needs.

If you're installing a higher-lift cam, check pushrod length and the arc the rocker arm describes over the valve stem.

Invest a few bucks in precision tools (dial calipers, mikes, ring compressor, etc.) and learn to use them. Trust no one but yourself and take your time.

I keep a running journal of engine specs as I assermble and engine. That way if, God forbid, you ever have to tear it down again, you'll know exactly what is wearing and how much.

Good luck. Patience is a virtue.