Rear Main Studs Too Long

[69viper]

I'm assembling a 2.2 with ARP Main studs. The rear main seal retainer is hitting the studs and preventing the retainer from mounting flush with the block. I tried grinding the inside of the retainer to clearance for the studs. The retainer is getting thin and the studs are right against the retainer. I'm worried that once the engine is hot and things start to expanding, the aluminum retainer is going to split. Do I have the wrong length of studs? Is there a difference in retainers from year to year? Anyone have this problem?

Thanks

[turbovanman²]

You have a kit for a pre common block, pre 88. You need to buy an 89 and up stud kit.

[dds78910]

I have a set I'll sell cheap.

[4 l-bodies]

If your that close to fitting, the logical thing to do would be to buy a bottoming tap 11x1.5 pitch and run that down the threads so you can lower the stud down a bit. I do that on every motor I build. That same tap will fit the head studs too. The factory threads are all over the place as far as thread depth. I would replace the "thinned" seal retainer.
Todd

[GLHS60]

I think the common block studs are longer than the pre common block. Is your block 88 or older??

Thanks
Randy

[69viper]

The block is an 89 block. I measured up the main studs and I believe that I have the right set. The 6 middle ones are about 3.75" and the 4 outer studs are 3.50". Once all torqued down, the studs stick out of the nuts by 0.22", just under a 1/4". Do I have the right set?

I will try and find a bottoming tap or I guess my other option is to just use stock bolts in the rear cap. The engine is running is an 8V IMSA head with a gt30 turbo so I'm trying to make it as strong as possible.

Steve