Hi all I am debating I really would like a mild 400ci small block in my car but question is where or how to get one! I found 1 in a truck in the junkyard but question is they have no history on it like has it been rebuilt dogged or what ever. They want 450 complete carburetor to oil pan. So my question is should I just get the junkyard motor and rebuild it or get one already rebuilt? I am only looking for modest power like say 350 at the wheels nothing crazy. If I do the rebuild I was thinking vortech heads (open to other cheap suggestions) maybe a XE268 or XE274 cam and a 650 speed demon carburetor? I want it to be streetable what do you think? Also this will be my first motor ever to build never ever done it before. So I need to know if this is the way I should go? Also if you need to know my budget there is none. I will buy parts a pice at a time till it's done but I plan to be done by summer maybe fall.

 

450 is a great price on a complete 400, i've saw less sell for lot more. if you're going ot rebuild it the history really doesn't make much differance.

 

I'd make sure that they garranty it's rebuildable. If you get it home and the block is cracked you don't want it. You might take it to a machine shop and have them tear it down and check everything out for you. It would cost a little extra but would probably be worth it.

Steve

 

Sometimes you can find a great deal in the classified section of your local news paper or auto trader. A lot of people start an engine buildup, run into financial problems, and sell off their investment at a significant discount (half price is common).

 

I don't know if there are any swap meets by you in the future, but that is a great place to get something like that. It will be already milled and cleaned up and ready for you. You may pay a bit more, but all the work is done for you
Just a suggestion
350 rwhp is VERY easy to make with one of those
Super Chevy did an article I think, or was it hot rod. 500ft lbs on 87 octane...you should look it up.

 

if you find a 400 small block that aint cracked or anything buy it...400 small blocks are getting very rare...it's even hard to find 4 bolt mains

 

i wouldnt worry too much if the 400's were cracked 90% of the heads are cracked (your buying new heads so that doesnt matter) and sometimes the blocks are cracked by the head bolt holes, thats nothing to worry about because there are no waterjackets or anything that are near it. so if you do and your machine shop says it cant be used cause of a crack there lying, or just dont know. a guy around here threw away like 10 400 blocks trying to find one that was cracked only to find out later on that it didnt matter. i know alot of people running 400's with cracks on the block by the bolt holes.