I'm kind of a rookie when it comes to this, so bear with me. My old L98 self-destructed back in May, so now's the ideal time to build something with some power, right? I already have a good 4 bolt main block that's already been prepped and bored .030, a 14088532 GM forged crank and a Super Ram intake. I realize that this isn't a complete list, I just want some opinions and input on the major parts.

Here's what I'm thinking for the bottom end:

• Aforementioned 4 bolt block and forged crankshaft
• Forged rods
• Forged flat-top pistons

I'd like to reuse the forged crank, but for rods and pistons, I really have no idea what I want or need. I'd like to have as solid a bottom end as I can. Within reason of course. Also, has anyone used one of those Sealed Power rebuild kits on Summit? They seem like a pretty good deal.

Topside:

• Super Ram
• AFR 1041 heads
• LPE 219/219 cam

I understand that this is a pretty proven combination, but a lot of the info I've found on the super ram is kinda dated, am I leaving anything on the table with this setup? Should I be more aggressive with the cam? What kind of compression should I be shooting for to run on 93? My goal for this car is to have a quick street car that won't embarrass itself at the track.

Again, I'm new at this, so if anything here doesn't make any sense or is a stupid idea, feel free to let me know haha. Any input is going to be greatly appreciated.

 

That would be why the info on it also is...

Nothing "new" has appeared for that thing in quite some time. I think the combo you have listed is reasonably appropriate to it, so no real need to try to re-invent the wheel.

The Sealed Power kits usually have pistons that add the extra .020" of "rebuilder" deck clearance, and will therefore lower your compression significantly. If you're looking for the best possible results, I'd look elsewhere.

 

I'd question any machine shop who bored a block without having the pistons for a final fit.

 

True... although it can be bored but left a couple of .001"s under, and honed to fit later.

 

I bought a block that had already had the machine work done to it. Bad move I guess?

 

Check it with a bore mic. If it's less than 4.028" or so, it's most likely OK. Otherwise, could be an overly enthusiastic mistake.

 

Might look into some of CompCams roller grinds. From what I've read, the XFI series is about as aggressive a lobe design as can be found. I've seen a lot of builds with CompCams grinds putting down very respectable numbers, often with fairly mild cams.