SO I recently found the 350 I have has some scored cylinders and will be scrapping that to get a blueprinted 383 gen 1 from Summit or Jegs (if anyone wants a block that needs to be bored out let me know). I've always thought if doing this I'd go with a forged setup for the lower end (i think its the 4340 steel) to make sure it was strong enough for anything I could put the block through; however, seeing that its an extra grand for that setup was wondering if anyone knew what kind of threshold you would need the forged crank plus what other benefits it might add?

I figure the scat cast cranks must still be able to handle quite a bit of power...with the edelbrock performer top end i'd expect to push over 400 hp and if I ever did any power adder with nos would probably keep it small at a 50 shot if even. Any input or previous experiences would be greatly appreciated!

 

Cast crank from Scat or Eagle will be fine for good bit of power. Forged is usually for high rpms and large amounts of power. However I usually see broken rods and pistons before a crank. Seen lots of guys here run cast style cranks but forged rods/pistons with good rod bolts and hold up to alot of power. I'm talking 600+hp and 6000+ rpm.

If you can swing the cash, go forged for security but not necessary for under 600hp. Just spend on good rods and pistons and keep a good tune on the motor, it will run fine.

 

Thanks! Good info! In regards to the 383 block does anyone have recommendations on a, "A small base circle camshaft is recommended with the short block." I am seeing this recomendation and I realize why for clearance issues but was wondering if anyone knew if there was a cam sold specifically for these type of applications? I'd prefer to not have this subsequently grinded once ordered for balancing concerns.

 

Many off the shelf cams are available in small base circle config.
Cam is not balanced