Thread: First 383 build

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Hello

This is my first post and first 350 build….I need your advice for engine rebuild.

This is current situation:
- Corvette 72 Conv.
- 3.08 posi diff
- E-street gen1 heads. (I assume that these are gen1 heads because the valve spring diameter is 1.25” instead of 1.46”). 64cc.
- Holley 650cfm douple pumper
- Edelbrock 2101 intake
- 1 5/8” headers
- 2” exhaust
- TH400
- Stock torq converter
- Block is 3970010
- Original pistons/crankshaft/connecting rods/camshaft/bore/stock height 9.025”
- Based on the measurements, the bore is too much tapered and worn out and needs boring

My target is to build engine which has as wide and high torque as possible in low+mid rpm range since the vehicle is only street driven, mainly in city and sometimes cruising.
I am looking for immediate tyre smoking performance. Max. peak power is not important. Vacuum power brakes.

I have been studying the setup and this is what I am considering for a rebuild:
- Eagle external balance 383 kit. B13405E030
- Block decked to 0.041” piston to head clearance
- Camshaft kit options: Howards CL113215-08 or Howards CL110235-10
- Valve springs: Comp Cams Beehive 26981. Seat load 110@shimmed to 1.7”. Open load. 284 @1.2"
- Rocker arms: Summit cast steel roller tip 1.5
- Fuel: E85 only
- Seems that SCR will be 11.1:1
- Spark plugs: NGK BKR6ES
- Exhaust system will be H-pipe and 2,5” with free flowing silencers
- I would like to use stock converter if possible (I am already exceeding the budget)

New bearings, seals, main+head+rocker arm ARP bolts, Fel-Pro 1010 head gaskets, Milodon stock oil pump, Comp 787 valve retainers, Comp 601 Valve locks and parts for retrofit roller camshaft.

Thank you in advance.
BR. Markus

Before you do anything, let's discuss some options. Have you considered a turbo on the 350? Have you considered an engine swap to an LS motor?
Here's a for-instance turbo kit.....
https://www.amazon.com/XS-Power-High...ag=d_2b_a_p-20
And an LS motor complete with transmission, less EFI could be had for $800-$1200. Add a manifold and carb.

Budget $600 for a decent 10" torque converter.
.

Hi

Nice to meet you.
I am from Finland, Europe.

I have considered a turbo and that would be a great way to increase torque especially with E85. However the car is close to original with numbers matching block and I would like to keep it that way since in our country it is possible to apply a museum vehicle status which requires that the car is close to original condition. Same case with LS swap.

BR. Markus