Thread: Max torque, small CID?

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I'm wanting to build a SBC for max low-end torque for trailer towing. (Grew up driving John Deere's and a 292).

So how would it work to put a 400 crank in a 305 or 307? Would one work better than other?

Since I'm only looking for low rpm would the heads be a limiting factor?

The other option is a 366 TD BB

Thanks for any help.

If it's low end torque your after, why not just put a 400 crank in a 400 block. As far as I'm concerned, in general and especially for a low end torque motor it would be most convenient and economical to start with as many cubes as possible. Good 400 blocks/engines are not that hard to find, and if you are not planning to spin a grunt motor past 5500 rpm or so, the complete stock internals(short rods and all) minus a good set of pistons would hold up just fine. Lots of low end fun! I run a 406 and love it. Big block grunt, small block weight!

Just a thought

Torque is more a function of displacement than stroke, this is a major misunderstanding. The bigger engine will always make more torque.

What are you towing and what is the vehicle? A small cube engine with a lot of torque might tow well but get crapie fuel mileage.

forget about the smal bore small block chevies, stick with the 4.00 inch bore or bigger 4.128. Or as you said you could go for a 366 tall deck truck block, BUT...... they are heavy and good for keeping your front wheels on the ground.

i see you say a 366 but you can find a 427 tall deck ?you can get it out to 525 easy with some work but it may not fit in to what you have easy or a 454 /496 with low buck parts