Got my 408 short block together noticed it was getting really hard to turn pulled the timing cover and oil pan and found that the rods are rubbing the windage tray!!! Do I just modify the tray or is there another way to fix???

 

You just need a washer under you windage tray. It will move it out far enough you will not have any more issues.

Put one washer between the cap nut and the windage tray you are good to go. Then tighten down as usual.

 

Ok thanks I was thinking that Being that I'm using the arp studs its going to have to be a special washer none of the ones I have here will work in unless I drill them out

 

I had to go to the harware store.

 

Thanks for the advice I'll have to run by there tomorrow and see what I can find

 

Ok I got the right washers. After installing and getting the Clearance that I'm happy with now my issue is the oil pick up tube hitting the bottom of the pan. After bending the tube I am able to get the pan on. Any one know the proper gap between the pickup tube and oil pan?? I have lil over 1/4 in!

 

Since neither move that should be plenty. I had to use spacers(washers) on my windage tray too on my 427 build.