I want to put a "big" 383 into my currently 305 Z. Which would you guys recommend, buying a crate deal or buying all of the parts and getting a shop to put it together?

I would like something with around 450-500HP (read: 500) and still run on 92 octane if possible, with "room" for maybe a conservative NOS shot for the track (100 hpish). I saw one at diablolical engines or something like that but they want 8k

 

Keep your eyes open on e-bay, I kid you not, there are some SWEET motor deals that go through there for around 3K. I wish I had done that myself! I liked the customization of an engine shop motor you can find some GREAT deals on crate motors if you just keep your eyes open...(DId I mention E-BAY?!)

 

gmhp sells ht383's for around 3700 but they dont have 500 hp. 340hp/435tq thats plenty of power and the torque will roast your tires if your suspention is stock. but im shure with a new cam and diffrent heads then u can get close to your 500 hp goal.

 

If you (or someone you know) have used a good reputable machine shop that you trust, you might consider building your 383. If you go this way, expect to wait twice as long as you think (if not longer) for stuff to get done, and expect to pay twice what you think to complete the thing... (guess how I know?)

If you don't have a machine shop in mind, or just don't have months to wait for your engine- buy a crate motor. It'll still cost 1.5 times what you think by the time you're done, but that's better than 2 times!