Well, we're still planning to put the 383 with Super Ram in my 91 Formula this weekend (so far, anyway, my helper's Dad is in the hospital so we're still kinda tentative.)

Anyway, the motor going in is a 383 with Super Ram, custom chip, 160 degree thermostat, ceramic coated SLP Tri-Y headers, MSD wires and coil, custom CompCam (400HP, 500Ft-lb, 510/525 lift with 1.6 roller rockers, 218/224 duration, 112 LSA), and Sportsman II iron heads at 10.56 compression. EGR and AIR will NOT be disabled since I'm in Dallas, TX area and we have emissions testing. I'm also retaining the dual cat setup though I doubt that matters for this discussion.

WP gives 2 plug reconnendations (with lots of equivalents), but it boils down to one of two heat ranges (Delco 43 or 44). With the 10.5 compression iron heads on this 383, would you use a hotter plug like a AC-Delco R44TS or a cooler plug like the R43TS? From reading all the posts I could find on this I suspect the colder plugs is the better choice, but just confirming that.

Also, normal plug gap for these heads is .035, but I suspect that's for a carb setup. Since I'll be running a modified TPI (LPE/Accel SuperRam), what plug gap does everyone think I should use? The .035, or a wider .050, or something else? I think GM originally specified a .035 gap on the 91 305HO TPI in this car, if that means anything.

Also, if I can get the blasted factory tach to work, I'll be adding my MSD Digital 6+ ignition box, but probably not this weekend. If I do, would that change your recomendation on the plug heat range and/or plug gap?

One last question, my custom prom guy is recommending a 160 thermostat, but I've always heard 180 is better for a fuel injection set-up. Suggestions?

Look forward to everyone's opinions and input on this. I also realize opinions are just like belly buttons - everyone has one of their own and some are full of all kinds of junk.

Looking forward to your ideas....


--- Vern