Not every engine that comes through the workshop is a late model truck. This one is a Pontiac 6.6L V8 – the 400 cubic inch Pontiac – built from the ground up in-house at Welshpool Auto Service.
About the engine
The Pontiac 400 is one of the great American V8s. It powered the GTO, the Firebird and Trans Am, the Grand Prix and plenty of others through the late 60s and 70s, and it’s a very different engine to the Chevrolet small block it often gets confused with. Pontiac built their own block, heads and intake, so the parts, the specs and the assembly details are all Pontiac-specific. That matters when it’s time to rebuild one properly.
What went into this build
This was a full build, not a freshen-up. The short block was stripped, cleaned, measured and machined, then assembled with new bearings, rings and gaskets throughout and the clearances checked and recorded along the way. On top of the block it’s wearing:
- Edelbrock Performer RPM intake manifold
- Holley four-barrel carburettor with a new fuel line and linkage
- Chrome rocker covers and breather
- New harmonic balancer and pulleys
- Block finished in the correct Pontiac engine blue
Everything was done under one roof – the machining checks, the assembly, the dress-up and the final inspection before it goes in the car. The owner gets one point of contact and one workshop responsible for the whole engine.
Why build in-house?
When an engine build is split between a machine shop, an assembler and the workshop that fits it, nobody owns the result. We’d rather control the whole process. We know the clearances because we measured them. We know the parts are right because we chose them. And when it’s fitted and tuned, we know exactly what we’re listening for.
Brad started out building and supporting V8 race cars that competed internationally, and that background is what this side of the business is built on. Classic American engines – Pontiac, Chevrolet, Ford, Mopar – are a regular part of the workload here alongside the modern trucks.
Classic V8 engine builds in Perth
Got a classic American V8 that’s tired, smoking or has been sitting under a bench for a decade? We can assess it, give you a straight answer on what it needs and build it properly. Have a look at our engine services or our recent 1972 Corvette big block job for another example.
Call us on (08) 9258 6409 or visit Unit 5/51 Division Street, Welshpool. Based in Welshpool – servicing Perth.
Ready to Book In?
Whether it’s a routine service or something more complex, our team is here to help. Get in touch and we’ll take care of the rest.
Our Services
Why choose Us? Perth’s trusted workshop for American trucks, utes, and performance vehicles.
American Vehicle Specialists
We’re not your average mechanic. Our team has extensive experience working with American-made vehicles – from RAM 1500s and Ford F-Series to Chevrolet Silverados and GMC Sierras. Whether factory-delivered or privately imported, we understand the unique requirements of these utes and trucks and have the tooling, knowledge, and parts network to service them properly.
Warranty-Safe Servicing Without the Dealership Price
All our servicing is carried out to manufacturer specifications using high-quality oils, filters, and parts. That means your dealership warranty stays protected – without the high hourly rates or upselling you often find at big-name service centres. We believe in transparent pricing and quality workmanship that speaks for itself.
Performance, Repairs & Modifications Under One Roof
From routine logbook servicing and mechanical repairs to performance upgrades and towing setups, we’ve got you covered. Our workshop is equipped for diagnostics, ECU tuning, lift kits, exhaust systems, suspension, and more – whether you’re looking for everyday reliability or off-road capability.
Real Advice from People Who Know Their Stuff
When you bring your vehicle to Welshpool Auto Service, you’re not dealing with a front desk – you’re speaking directly with the people who will be working on your car. We offer honest, practical advice based on years of hands-on experience with the vehicles we service.