454 Heads on a 396?

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Aug 20, 2007 | 09:30 PM

Koll

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454 Heads on a 396?

As the title states. Could I run a set of 454 BBC heads (casting 343772) on a 396 block? Id like to find out before I get everything bolted down and find the valves hit the block.

Aug 21, 2007 | 12:49 AM

ZONES89RS

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Hmmmm....i am not too big on the knowledge side on the BBC like i am the mouse, but i think you can, someone here will be able to elaborate.

Aug 21, 2007 | 10:57 AM

Koll

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By the way.
343772.....68-86...oval...OPEN...366T, 427T, 454

Thats what the heads were for.

Aug 23, 2007 | 12:06 PM

1badnova496

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All big block heads will bolt up without problems with the valves hitting anything. I would advise against putting 71 and up 454 heads on a 396 since they have open combustion chambers unless you have a big dome like the factory 396/375hp piston.

Aug 23, 2007 | 12:29 PM

ZONES89RS

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Ok, i learned somthing.

Aug 25, 2007 | 10:22 AM

Koll

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Good deal 1bad.
The pistons that I have are some crazy big dome. I dont know the exact specs, but its large.

Aug 25, 2007 | 02:41 PM

edcmat-l1

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Depending on the cam, you may want to notch the block around the bores where the intake and exhaust valves come close. On the 396s theres a little notch there already.
The best way to view it is from the bottom of the bore. With the pistons out, bolt a head on, flip the motor over, and with checker springs installed, move the valves open and closed and see how close they come.
BTW, this is only critical when using 2.19/1.88 valves, like come in the factory square ports. Otherwise, with the smaller valves in the oval ports, its no big deal.