I'm about to get my bottom end balanced at a shop, and I'm wondering if I should assemble it before taking it up there? If so, what all should I assemble? Also, if so, should I take care and torque it all to spec?

 

no need to assemble it all. i'd bring the pistons, rods, crank and crank pulley. you can include the flywheel(+bolts) and clutch plate as well.

 

Definitly do not assemble it before you take it. You will just have to disassemble the block when you get there. The purpose of balancing an engine is, of course, smoother operation. They achieve this by making sure each of the different parts weigh the exact same as their same type e.g. rods all weigh the same........yada, yada, yada. You get the idea, I'm sure.