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To stroke or Not to stroke thats the quesston

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Old Dec 12, 2009 | 04:26 PM
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Default To stroke or Not to stroke thats the quesston

So I have a fresh from the machine shop LQ9 thats been punched out to 4.030" and I already own a set of Mahle flattops that fit stock rods.

I should have done more research before I bought the pistons, but the machine shop wanted to fit the pistons in the bores. So I bought them. now after pricing the cost of ARP bolts for the stock rods and the prep work involved I might as well buy foraged rods. and I'm having a hard time pulling the trigger when if I had done my research 1st I would have known that I am basically only $900 away from a 408 instaed of a 370. And then there is balancing, either way I do it I would need to get either rotating asy. balanced. so thats a draw.

so I guess my only problem is that I already have a $550 piston set I couldn't use if I go stroker? I'm sure I can sell them but surely not for the $550 I paid for them a month ago.


I guess what I'm looking for is some advise, what would you do? risk eating $550 and stroke? is the performance gained worth it? or just live with my mistake, afterall I can still use the pistons I have, it would just be in a 370 with a stock crank.


thanks for and input.
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Old Dec 12, 2009 | 05:25 PM
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Well it sucks you bought the pistons already but a 408 is the way to go. IMO some people might think diff but i had a 408 and im ready to build another one
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Old Dec 12, 2009 | 06:04 PM
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I would stroke it. most shops would return your pistons for a small fee and some times if you need to upgrade you pistons there is no fee. For the money you gain big TQ out of the stroker motor well worth the cost.
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Old Dec 12, 2009 | 06:15 PM
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Stroke it!!! I have so much regret for only having a stock size ci....
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Old Dec 12, 2009 | 07:07 PM
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I would stroke it!
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Old Dec 13, 2009 | 09:42 AM
  #6  
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another thing to consider is that the block has been final honed for the 4.030" Mahles that I have now, I am looking at the Compstar Speed Packs which come with Mahle pistons. what are the chances the new pistons would still be in spec? Even if I would have to rehone it's not the end of the world unless the new pistons where to small for my current bores.
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Old Dec 13, 2009 | 03:20 PM
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stroke it. more cubic inches is Always a Good thing
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