Ok I know this is a broad question. But I'm planning the build up of a third gen camarothat will be used primarily for weekend drag racing not daily driving. I'm shooting for something with approximately 500 flywheel horsepower. I'm stuck as to whether or not to build a 406SBC or go with the more reliable big block but have to deal with the heavier weight and cramped engine compartment as well as exhaust issues. Any input is appreciated. What would be a better deal money wise? The 406's I've seen run nearly as much if not more than a zz502. Thanks in advance.

 

Do you like to race or win, the 406 will be a race, the 502 will be a win.

 

It's cheaper to build a 500 hp 502 than it is to build a 500 hp 406. The 502 would be a less maintenence 500 hp engine also.

The extra weight is only about 150 pounds but the increase in torque from the longer stroke of the BBC more than makes up for it.

A 500 hp small block is considered a high maintanence engine. To produce that much hp from less cubic engines mean a high reving engine and a high lift cam. You could count on changing valve springs at least once if not twice a year. I expect to have to change my valve springs about every 2-3 years.

Since you're drag racing will be ET brackets, build a cheap, easy to maintain small block. Don't worry about high hp. A mild SBC should have no problems running 12's and you won't hurt any parts.

The faster you want to go, the more you'll have to invest in stronger parts. Don't forget that the stock tranny and diff won't last very long behind high HP. You'll also need chassis work to help get the power to the ground.

Bracket racing isn't about speed. It's about having a consistant vehicle. One that runs the same every pass will win more races.

 

If I did go with a 502 or built 406 I was planning on a self-built TH400 and a strange f*rd 9" rear end along with adjustable lca's, lca relocation brackets, torque arm, sfc's, etc. I'd still like to drive it on the street on the weekends but a rough idle isn't going to bother me. I'm having a hard time deciding what will be fast enough. Maybe I'd be better off going with a mild 383 but with an all forged bottom end so I could spray it in the future if I wanted to go faster. I guess the main reason I want a 500hp power plant is I'd like to be able to run with some of the newer vipers (just an ego thing) but that probably wouldn't give me a very consistent car. Decisions, decisions...

 

My opinion would be a 406. The 502 would have more tq., and maybe a little less maintenance, but the 406 would be easier. I don't think a 500hp 406 would cost more than a 502. It could if you blew money in places that weren't needed, but a 500hp. 406 can be had for $4500, and it will be reliable. If it is raced on the weekends, the valvesprings won't be too bad. The heads you would need to use will more than likely have big springs on it already. Everyone has their opinion, for me it would be a 406.

 

I'd go with the 502 myself. But again, each to their own. I think I'm going with a 502 in a few years once I finish my cyrrent car. I'm thinking of a low (8.5, 8.75:1) compression, 20psi of intercooled boost and a TPI setup from Arizona & Marine. Just gotta have 1000bhp.

Either way though, whether you choose the big or the small block, it'll be quick.

Rob

 

Thats what I want to have someday, a supercharged 502. Just imagine the possibilities.

Andrew

 

I want a 540. Same bore as a 502, plus a few thousands, but a longer stroke.

 

What is the bore/stroke of the 502 in comparison to the 540?

 

502 = 4.466" bore, 4.000" stroke
540 = 4.500" bore, 4.250" stroke

Since the 502 block isn't a true 4.500" bore it needs to be bored out then have a stroker crank installed. The 502 block can be safely bored out .060". There are many 4.500" aftermarket blocks available.

Trouble is that I don't have a 4.500" bore block yet so the most I could go with the 454 block is 496.