Thread: Big Block Supercharger build questions

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Im currently planning the buildup of a 468ci Big Block Chevy. I have a set of 1966 396 heads, closed chambers (I believe around 96cc combustion chambers) and was wondering if anyone else has used these on a supercharged engine and if they performed well. I am concerned with the small cc heads, and do not know if they will flow enough without actually causing backpressure on the blower.

The block is a 2 bolt main block, and current plans are to stud the mains and run a forged crank/rod/piston setup. Any comments or concerns on this (will be running 10psi at 1:1 drive)

And the last part, does anyone know of a website that is based for building/tuning supercharged engines?

Thanks for any help with this, Jason

Thanks Richard-What are your thoughts on the 2 bolt main setup for this instead of a 4 bolt. I assume that studding the mains will help significantly in a normally aspirated engine, but Im not so sure in a supercharger application. Thanks, Jason

Yes, planning on using forged JE or equivalent blower pistons with a thicker crown, steel crank and rods, studding the mains and heads.

Ok, so what are your thoughts on machining the 2 bolt block in favor of a splayed 4-bolt main, any idea on $$$ for something like that. I would rather invest a little in this block then alot for another that I would have to start over on, would rather use the money for other parts...

I've also heard that you need to O-ring the block for the heads, but Fel-Pro has a gasket out with a steel ring that will do the job...Anyone used these yet in a supercharger setup?

Ps - Thank you very much for all the info !!! I appreciate it !!!

Right now the block is .040 and has a sleeve in one of the cylinders....Im starting to wonder if I should'nt start with a new block....I believe I could get by honing the cylinders, since they appear to be in great shape, and the current block has about 7000 miles since the last rebuild....But you are right, rather have it done right first time then have to pull the thing back out and start all over, because of a main failure....

Thanks alot for all the info !!

Agreeing with those above who say to start with a fresh or unbored 4 bolt block. My perference is for a one that has been run but does not need to be bored (granted it's an unlikely find) so that any shifting will have already taken place.

You might want to have the new block "posted" so that it can take a little more punishment. It doesn't cost much and is therefore cheap insurance.

Which supercharger(s) are you planning to run and are you going to intercool it?


Abe

Thanks for adding that streets. My experience with rats is pretty limited and I didn't know that unlike some of their smaller cousins they are kind to the bores.

Do you agree that a block that's been run is a better start than a "green" one?

Abe

Wow-alot of great info !!

Thank you for helping out on this...I have decided to get another block that is not sleeved and is a 4-bolt main and bore it only if it needs it. Still will go after the steel crank and rods, forged pistons etc..I was hoping to make my block work but I don't want to chance taking everything out again when something does go wrong..

I have read quite a bit about the buildup of supercharged engines. I have read the guide to street supercharging book and it does have alot of good info in it, but it's sometimes contradicts itself.

I appreciate all the info everyone has given me, I can now get started on this long project !!! Jason