http://www.hotrod.com/articles/dart-...-engine-build/

Has anyone ever attempted this build here?

I have in my possession a production 400 block with 5.7" rods and correct New Icon pistons for the build but I came across this article and would like to go this route by selling these and getting a 9.325 tall block with 6.250 rods and 4.125 stroker crank. I know the rod to stroke ratio is 1.48 but I do not intend to rev more than 5500 just like I do now with my stock 89 IROC with the 350 TPI.

I want max torque and I know people will jump all over me for this but I want to stay TPI. My car is strictly a street car. Had it for many years and it now has 170,000 miles so if I do the engine over I minds well go bigger. Even if it means FIRST performance TPI or aftermarket base and runners. The heads will need to be either DART or AFR and I definitely will change the cam to accommodate idle to 5500 RPM use because I am keeping my borq warner 2.77 rear. I contacted DART for more info on this engine build but no answer yet.

 

I wouldn't go that complicated. Build a 406 and you will have more than enough power and torque to tear sh#^t up.

 

Thank you for your response!
I appreciate not jumping all over me about this idea. I do like the 406 TPI which is pending but the 450 sbc article intrigued me after I realized that I will need to go flat tappet cam with my 406 and when researching the roller lifter capable Dart block I found that there was a tall block version for bigger stroke. Not too sure about the retrofit cams as far as reliability goes for my production 400 block.

 

My dad ran a 406 with brodix heads and retrofit roller cam. Put a lot of miles on it. Fully street-driven 67 chevelle ran 11.30s 1/4. Ofcourse it was carbed. You will be held back on power by your TPI system but I always loved the way they looked.

 

Keep talking dmccain!

So the retrofit kits are reliable? Do you remember which brand your dad used?

I would go with the FIRST intake if I have to because like you I too like the TPI look. I also like the street ability it provides. 170,000 miles on my 350 and no complaints whatsoever.

 

Years ago I used a Comp 212*/218*-.487"/ .495" @110 LSA retrofit hyd roller in my 400 sbc with Vortec heads. Still works!
Didn't have any of the possible hyd flat tappet, "Am I going to wipe some lobes?" issues with the rollers.

 

Converting a 400 to roller is the same as a pre 87 SBC 350 just get a roller kit from comp or similar place, good timing chain and strong timing cover and you are good to go.

 

I'd probably lean towards a 4" stroke. Easier to fit and clearance. Oil pan rails get cut alot with big strokes

421-434 are very popular and work well

 

Also just remembered there was a guy on corvette forum with a 450 sbc. Afr 245 head and a custom miniram i think. Ran into the mid high 10's all motor i think. to me it wasnt that impressive