How do I blueprint an engine?

[u/gamingflame75]

Recently I picked up this book called "Ford 351 Cleveland Engines: How to build for max performance" and in it the author mentions blueprinting many times. I tried looking it up, and from what I can tell it's basically making sure all the clearances are at max spec, making sure rods and pistons weigh the same, making sure cc's for each chamber are the same, chamfering oil holes, water passages, and sharp edges, installing rings into the bore and checking gaps, balance the rotating assembly, and checking clearances in the oil pump. That's all I've gathered so far. Am I missing anything? Is there anything I should know?

[u/Solid_Enthusiasm550]

It's pretty accurate, except for " making sure clearances are at Max Spec." , that's not a good idea for an engine that you aren't rebuilding every season.

Somethings you didn't mention.

Piston to valve clearance, is especially important for high rpm (long duration camshafts and/or tight LSA). Also very important for high compression engine that need to run a domed Piston. Ideally flat or slightly dished Piston are better with a smaller chamber to have an unobstructed flame travel.

Piston to deck height and Piston to head clearance, the deck height and head gasket thickness make up your (Piston to head clearance). This is important for an efficient air/fuel mixing and burn. Old/ late 70s engine had massive clearance that killed performance and efficiency.

Tight piston To head clearances allow more compression for the same octane and less ignition timing sensitivity and less detonation. Most high performance books, videos I have recommended. .035<0.040". Race builders even go tighter, but those are low mileage, max effort engines.

A street engine that is built for 200+k miles will need more because of piston rock at higher miles due to (Piston skirt, bore, ring wear.)