I know a 383 is made by using a 400 crank and rods in a 350 block but how is a 396 made using the same 350 block???

Also, which would be a better performer, the 383 or the 396???

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[This message has been edited by 92GTA (edited April 26, 2001).]

 

a 396 is a 396. its a big block, or as far as i know they all were. in other words, its not 'made' by changing the stroke/bore of another casting.

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• 83 Z28--ttops, 200k miles--very ragged out. sold, thank goodness
• 74 Z28--slightly modded 383, TH400 tranny, not too quick but fun to drive

 

true.

unless you can make some strange combo of a small block that also comes out to "396"

 

That's what I thought but I think you can somehow because I've seen them in magazines...

[This message has been edited by 92GTA (edited April 26, 2001).]

 

To achieve 396ci in a small block, you drop a 3.835" crank, vs a 383's 3.75", and over-bore the block to 4.040".

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Actually, it's a .030" over 350 block with a 3.875" crank. The advantages are a little more torque at a slightly lower rpm. The disadvantages is cost due to extra machining for the clearancing of the crank, and the cost of the parts due to their "less than common" usage.

A 383 can be built very cheaply due to the proliferation of cheap parts for this combo. You have to ask yourself is the 13 extra cubic inches worth it. For the extra cost, it would be worthwhile to compare the cost of getting a 400 core and rebuilding it. Then you will get an even further 10 cubic inches (406 vs 396).

 

From what I've seen, 396 is getting to be a popular upgrade to the LT1 motor. The number is just famous in Chevy engine history more than anything. And of course, theres no replacement for displacement?

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Birdman,

As is normal, listen to Glenn. I have researched the 396 SBC motor and found it to be cost prohibitive. The only way to make one is with a 4340 steel crank, 4340 rods, extra machine work, and some serious cross-bolted main caps. ( Read $$$ )

The big swing of the rods necessitates the mods, and will still deliver "only" 396 cubes.

Like the man said, build a 406 starting with a 400 block, and YOU can decide how much 4340 stuff to buy.

A cast steel crank with 4130 rods in a 406 will be good to 6000 RPM / 500 HP and cost $2,000 less than the super good stuff plus extras the 396 would cost you.

Of course, you could go all 4340 in a 406, spin it to 7,000 RPM/ 600 HP and have a blast in a 2,800 lb. car.

(Just be patient boys, the chef is in the kitchen)

Good luck - and nice car !


BOR

 

The 396 SB is getting more popular bc that is the practical limit for LT1s. But, they are really not worth the trouble over a 383. I saw a impala ss with a 396, LT4 heads, and a comp cam (probably a CC305) make 377 rwhp. The car ran 12.7 with 4300lbs. But, when you think about it, 380 rwhp is really not that impressive. A 383 can make that pretty easy. You also get into some real lame rod ratios and very small spaces for ring location. The oil control ring often requires a support because the wrist pin is soo high up. Certainly required when using any rod longer than 5.7 inch.

 

LOL

 

I guess I'll just stick with a 383 then...

 

I have to admit. I am more impressed with people take big cubes that produce big horsepower and can get it to plant on the pavement. Unlike the common believe at school (der, i got 430 horses and can do burnouts all day long..). Then again, maybe my way of thinking is just...off...

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