DMX69785

iTrader: (2)

Hey guys,
Really need some help with picking a motor. I've been deciding between a 383 and a 454. Have quite a few SB parts laying around so it would def. be quicker to build a SB but I've heard far better stories on BB being worth it. Thought I would get some input from you guys here, so any suggestions would be great!
Thanks,
Joel

fast82z

iTrader: (1)

I'd say your power goals will determine that. If you're looking for 400-450hp, the small block is fine. If you're looking for 500+hp it would probably be better to go to the big block. If you're not worried about street driving, SB up to 550hp, BB for more. Just my 2 cents.

DMX69785

iTrader: (2)

Yeah this will mostly see street time but track time also. Mostly looking for a pretty ballsy street machine capable of running 12's. thanks for the input

doc221978

For them power levels a sb would be enough. A 454 wouls suck down way to much gas, and be a lot more expensive to set up.

fast82z

iTrader: (1)

12's are pretty easy. The guy I talk to at the track has a stock bottom end 350 with a decent set of vortec heads and a mild cam running 12.2-12.4. You're probably aiming for 400-450hp or 320-360rwhp.

AlkyIROC

A SBC can easily get you into the 12's. There are also BBC in stock trim that can't get into the 12's. I had a cheap 383 push me into the very high 11's many years ago but I wouldn't have wanted to drive it on the street.

For an easy swap, stick to a SBC. A BBC swap isn't hard but costs can escalate out of control if you're not careful.

The easiest way to have a streetable engine that can dip into the lower numbers is to add NOS to it.

DMX69785

iTrader: (2)

thanks for the input guys, from whats said I think i'll just go with the 383 and sell my BB. From looking at the parts I have laying around I think the 383 will have to be more strip orientated. I have a set of Diamond 11cc domed pistons with some H-beams. Also got a pretty decent roller cam around somewhere. My buddy's got a forged crank and some alum. heads for me. So hopefully should be looking at about 450-500hp. Being said, I don't think it will see as much street time.

whitroc

Big blocks are completly obsolete these days. you can bore and stroke a 400sbc up to a 482 if you want to. o take your 350 block and bore and sroke it out to a 454. Thats pushing it but its possable. just go out and take a look at the performance book you can find at any good parts store called "how to build big inch small block chevys".

AlkyIROC

You're not going to get those displacements with a factory production SBC block. Spend $3000 for a bare aftermarket block plus the very expensive SBC heads to feed such an engine and you could build 2 BBC for the same price.

Don't believe all those big inch small block stories. Yes it can be done but not with production parts and the life of those types of engines isn't very long.

DMX69785

iTrader: (2)

yeah I don't think I've ever heard of anyone doing that. It seems to be much easier to just buy a BB.
Stephen, I am curious though after reading the specs on your 383, how much did you actually put into it?

AlkyIROC

The engine was in the car when I bought it with some really crappy smog heads. My only investment into it was some better heads and carb.

sgreen3

iTrader: (4)

after putting in the big block in my 84 Z28 I will never build another performance small block. if the big block is built conservitive witch mine is you'll have more horsepower and about twice the torque for pretty much the same cost as a real stout small block.( i have made that mistake in the past) and for a real fun street car the more torque the more fun. because the car probably will never see over 5k except the time or two at the track! just my 2cents

DMX69785

iTrader: (2)

my buddies got a completely forged short block for a good deal so I'm planning on buying that. It's only a 350 but it ran 9.70 in a 2500lb car when it was complete. So I'm just staying with SB, cheaper and lighter.

Daz

iTrader: (1)

I agree with this guy. I had a 383 with a Superrram and TFS heads with a bunch of bolt ons and still would only compare to a BBC with a low compression BBC intake and cam. Easy access to all the plugs and stock style maintenance.After spending money on the initial swap cost..exhaust, hood and accessories.The sky is the limit when it comes to power..A 450HP small block means a more aggressive cam,loud exhaust, more aftermarket parts and maybe premium gas.A 450HP 454 would just mean a stock rebuild,"regular" gas,an intake and cam.

dekoy411

I went with a 383 and I love it. It has good street manners and everything. It just depends on what you want to do with it. For me I use my car as a daily driver and there aren't any tracks near by me to take it to in the first place. Plus the 383 eats enough gas I could just imagine what a 454 would get gas mileage wise. If your going to be taking it to the track more then using it as a daily driver then I would go for the 454 otherwise the 383 is just perfect in my opinion. Keep us updated on what you chose. If you go with a 383 I'd be interested in what cam you went with. I chose a smog legal cam but am now debating on putting a larger one in it. Either way good luck with the swap it should be a fun ride!

DMX69785

iTrader: (2)

Well my buddy has a completely forged shortblock; 1182 crank, forged eagle rods, and some nice diamond 13cc domed pistons he'll sell me for a good deal. Also picking up the set of world heads that were on it, they are stage 3 race ported with 2.02/1.6, titanium retainers, solid-flat tappet springs and are studded with guideplates. Cam-wise will be going with a solid-flat tappet probably in the 240-260 @.050 area. This will basically be a weekend warrior. Most likely going to the track every other weekend with some street time in between.