Ryan started at Blackstone in 1997 after graduating from Purdue University with a degree in mechanical engineering. Ryan is responsible for writing and maintaining Blackstone’s software program, setting up and managing the lab, writing reports, and a million other things that need to be done in a business. When he’s not kicking ass in the lab or writing code, Ryan enjoys putting his pilot’s license to good use, working on his ’84 Chevy 3/4 ton, and raising his kids. As an experiment, Ryan ran Aeroshell W65 — an oil with (gasp!) no zinc or phosphorus in it — in his Chevy to determine if the hype over ZDDP (zinc dithiophosphate) is all that or not, figuring if the experiment ruined his engine, well, he’s rebuilt it before. (Spoiler alert: The engine was fine. See pictures from the rebuild and the latest report from his Chevy below.)
Ryan’s Engine Rebuild:
The “before” picture of the engine, with almost everything removed, including the cylinder heads and intake manifold.
What a beauty! Engine has been cleaned and painted.
The block with the new cylinder heads and old intake re-installed. Had to put both back on in order to remove the engine.
Ryan and Jim hard at work in Jim’s barn.
After the engine was removed, sitting on the stand.
Back in she goes! The new carburetor is on top.
