Thread: SBC - 400hp - where to start?

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Hey guys! Great forum! I have been reading a lot! Still have a lot of confusion...

Turned 30 this year and decided it is time to get something in the garage as a long term project. Picking up the car tonight! Very excited! I have always loved the 80's box Chev's. Found a MINT 87 Caprice for sale for the right price, and now it is mine!

Problem: Stock 307ci Olds motor (Canadian car, so no 305ci)

Want to do an SBC, low buck, so likely Vortec heads and a street-able cam. All my read says that if rebuilt right, this combo should net me somewhere above 300hp. Good for now. More power later...

Questions: What SBC should I go look for? late 90's truck that already has Vortec heads? Post 87 SBC that already has roller? Old school SBC?

I just need to know where to start based on ease of build, and cost. Appreciate you guys!

If it were me, I'd be looking for a newer LS 1 or LS 2 engine!!!! 400 hp and torque is easily done and you can still get decent fuel mileage, too!!!!

Sounds like big money...

I found a great website that might help you out.
Ryan's Small Block Chevy Stroker Engine Combo Page

Check it out

i would look for a 5.3 or 6.0 iron ls series engine, the ls2 is a great motor its all aluminum so $$ the iron 6.0 is just as good and alot cheaper. at our local unkyards a core 4.8-5.3-60 is around 200-250 dollars! or a complete runner for around 6-800 or an entire swap trans harness ECU for about 1300-1500!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Originally Posted by timapexcomputer

Sounds like big money...

yes and no.... it means kicking out a lot of $$$$$ all at once, but on total cost it's really, really close!!! We have a place here local (Nordstrom's Auto) that sells complete take out ls engine and transmissions assemblies with the harness reworked for an easy install with prices starting around $4,000.00.... I've spent more then that on a bottom end for an engine!!!

If you'd rather keep it simple or you're not up with LS style engines, I'd start with a factory roller block. Vortec heads would be perfect. Stock roller lifters will work if the cam isn't radical. If you need lifters go with LS7 lifters. They are affordable and work great.