Got the rod bearings all plastigaged, they're also running about .002, good to go! Installed all 6 pistons, number 2 was a bugger, had to take it out and put it back in a couple times to get it right, the rings kept wanting to stick. It seems like every wrenching project has some stupid little task that takes 10 times longer than it's supposed to. Number 2 install took as long as all 5 of the others put together. I finally finished the pistons around 10:30, time to chow down and get ready to go at it full bore tomorrow. Hopefully by this time tomorrow the engine will be assembled, maybe have the clutch, bellhousing and tranny bolted up too.
I haven't started tearing the rig down yet since she still runs, and if pressed I could run the trail the way she is now, in case I hit a brick wall with this project.
Besides engine rebuild and 4 speed tranny swap, I also have to install my spare CB, my mic took a dump at Moab on the first day out and I was relegated to my handheld.