Hey all, some of you may have seen in my reply to the Vette / Viper shootout thread in the Eastern Section that I managed to do some sort of internal damage to my engine last weekend. It is knocking horribly, actually sounds like some large metallic object being thrown around inside the engine. I have yet to pull it out of the car (this coming weekend) but with 147k miles, I am ready to make the leap to a nice stroker setup. First of all, I want to know if what I am looking at is even feasable:

450 RWHP / 430+ RWTQ
More lowend power than up high, no need for more than 6700 RPM redline.
Would like a drop in unit, but don't mind piecing one together.
Now the biggie....
Not looking to spend more than $6k COMPLETE. I will be doing all labor myself / with my father so that is not an issue.

I am looking strictly for an N/A application, no N2O or F/I. I would also like to keep it fairly streetable, doesn't need to be a DD, but I am not picky at all with how big the cam is, etc.... I have been looking at a couple of places like LS1speed, Texas-speed, etc... and would LOVE to go 402, but I think I could 'settle' for a nice, stout 383. So please, give me your recommendations, and whether or not you think my goal is achievable.

Thank you,

Nick

 

The 383 with a set of AFR 205's would be a nice combination, espeacially with your goals of low-end power. The 383 will be the most cost effective, since you can use your block as a core. With the core, you should be able to get the short block for around $3k, then $2k for AFR's, leaving $1k for misc, maybe a new cam. 450+ would be no problem with that set-up, and TQ would be oozing from your ears. With the $6k budget, I just don't think the 402 would be feasable.

 

I'm buying a stout 455 for my TA rebuilt to my order for a estimated final price of about 2,900 shipped....you just gotta look around really.

 

Jason is right. A 383 will accomplish your goals easily. If your block isn't damaged, you can get it finish honed to a 3.905" bore. Then throw in a 4" stroker crank, some good rods, and pistons, and you're set!

 

i vote 383 as well. id call LME, they are a sponsor on the right.

 

For 6k I'd go 402 from LME.

 

You have the headers to maintain a nice Low end.

Just have to pay attention to needing a tune, intake and the fuel.

 

Thanks for the quick replies all! I definately can see that my most likely choice is going to have to be going the 383 route with some nice AFR's and a custom comp grind. The LME 402 looks like an awesome setup, but at 4500 for the short block, ~300 for shipping, $450 for valley covers, front cover, etc..., and then heads / cam / intake, I will be well over the $6k mark. I am going to start shopping soon, but would still appreciate any more input anyone has. Or if anybody has any leads on a good engine out there, either from a vendor, or private sale, please let me know.

Nick

 

I dont know man. The money is close and you could make it work if you wanted to. You could buy used heads to get you by and just keep your cam shaft as well. You would have a much nicer setup with the 402. Final cost will be a little over 6k if you dont buy AFR's. But I can understand cost. I went 347 to cut costs.

 

One of the car mags just did a dyno test on a stock vette crate motor. Seems like the complete eng. was about 5400 or so. Scoggin Dickey would know. It made 473 on the dyno if I recall. Might have been RUMBLE magazine.