I need advice, i've looked through the posts, and i have a better idea, but still need some good advice. The car is a daily driver and i would like to get into the 300 rwhp range, but still have good MPG.

I bought a 357 for $300. It has:
4 bolt main
New GM Rods
New GM Cast Steel crank
New bearings
New Oil Pump
New Hypereutectic Pistons .040 over 9.6 to 1 Compression

I was told that i should just get a "step up replacement" Cam & lifter so i wouldn't have to mess with the ecu, but i don't think that will get me to where i want to be.

What combination Heads and Cam should i get?
For the Cams, I've heard good things about the LT4 Hot Cam, & Crane 2032.

And for the Heads, i've heard good things about Vortec, or AFR's. I don't want to spend too much money on this, but whatever it takes.

Please help me with my issues!!

 

The first "issue" you're going to have to overcome is the fear of PROM tuning. It's your friend, so embrace it.

What else do you have planned for the TPI?

 

i guess i am a little intimidated with the ecu, but if i upgrade the cam, even if its a step up, i have to burn a new chip?
i love the low end tq of the tpi and would like to get bigger runners as well to increase that.

 

Well, consider this: SDPC2000 took an L98 block (or maybe it was L31 - doesn't matter, same thing), added upgraded Vortec heads, their Vortec TPI base, LT4 Hot Cam & 1.6 roller rockers, Edelbrock runners, 58cc TB, and headers for 360 gross flywheel horsepower without any PROM tuning.

They have the upgraded Vortec heads kit, LT4 Hot Cam kit, & Vortec TPI base available on their site. You add the TB, runners & headers, port the plenum, and assuming the typical 20% drivetrain loss you're at 290 RWHP.

 

sounds like that is very close to my goal, i'll do some more research on that setup. Thanks alot!