The pistons are not out of the hole a far as I know. I don’t have a dial indicator (or even the short block yet) to measure. I was told that most aftermarket builders keep the pistons flush or even in the hole some. The block wasn't decked either (as far as I know) as it was a new GM block. Cometic makes a .060 gasket but I have ordered the LS9 gasket which I believe is .050. I asked Richard about the .060 and he said they are pleanty strong and I shouldn't have any problems.

I get a 10.44:1cr with .050

 

That would be pretty awesome. How did you get that number? I couldn't find a definitive answer on the LS9 gasket thickness.

 

Your cam you mentioned seems pretty decent, I personally would go with a bit more exhaust bias with your 402 and keep the LSA at a 116-117 with like a +2 advance.

 

Correction, 0.053" I measured them at 0.055" and have heard the 0.053 tossed around as the compressed thickness on tech.

 

So that puts me at about 10.4:1 if the pistons are not out. I have a PM in to the original owner to see if he discussed this with the builder.
So if they are out .010, how do I add that in to the calculator?

How about a .075 gasket
http://www.netgaskets.com/ProductDet...1%2DB&CartID=1

 

Done lurking... subscribing.

 

Usually the SCR calculators have a field to input how far down into the hole the pistons are, just make it negative if they are out of the cylinder. I usually use .010 out of the hole for stock blocks.

 

New toy to help me swap

Folds up nice too!

 

And parts are starting to show up...

 

I have that same one!!
I'm done lurking too! I'm subscribed for the long haul!!