I started my project with a tired 305 TPI from an 86 IROC-Z, a desirer to build a 300HP engine that will run on regular gas, and a second job to earn as much cash as I need. After hours for reading various threads I have abandon the 305 and have a 1972, 350 block. I have also picked up a set of 624 heads, which I will have ported and polished. They also need new springs and valves. I have convinced myself that a 383 stroker makes sense. More CI easier to make the 300HP that I want. A cast crank, and new pistons, nothing fancy I don’t plan on high revs. I don’t want to go fast, I want low and mid range torque to smoke the tires, speed kills (the insurance rates). I have gone along with the crowds (world best selling cam according the Super Rod Mag.) and plan to put in a Comp cam 12-210-2 (218, 218, /.454, .454) Good street performance and a choppy idle for sound effects. I will install hydraulic lifters, but would not mind converting to rollers if there is a way. I want to use the stock intakes because of the look. I will also install a noisy timing gear drive, because a blower will get me into trouble, but does sound good. Half the fun of a rebuild is learning new stuff so I will listen to any advice. I might not take it but I will listen. So what do you think of my set up?

 

Time to abandon the 624 heads. You spent too much effort on them already by picking them up. If you didn't pay anything for them and need a couple of doorstops, then you probably got your money's worth.

Can we assume you're plannning on keeping the TPI? If so, there are some things that need reorienting.

"Choppy idle" and "noisy timing gear drive" - forget them. TPI isn't happy with those things. If "low and mid range torque to smoke the tires" really is your goal, try this: Take the 305 heads, port them and have 1.94" intake valves put in. Use a CL12-256-4 cam and valve springs to match. Put that together with your 350 shortblock, your goal will be realized.

And, you can't "convert" a flat tappet cam to roller lifters. The cam has to be designed for the type of lifter going on it. You can get "retrofit" roller lifters & cam for that block, but it's expensive and rarely worth it - certainly not called for in this case.

 

I can understand the cam causing problems, but I thought the timing gear proformed the same function as a timing chain. The ad's imply they are even better. I know it's an ad, but gears are typical better than chains.

 

The problem they cause involves the knock sensor - a noisy gear drive can drive it bonkers. You might be able to use it without issue, but it really is an unnecessary expense for the type of build you have in mind.