I'm constantly searching for an engine upgrade in my 91 from a 305 to something with *****. I don't really want to shell out 10 grand for a 502 or 572. Seeing as I have to pay off school for the next 10 years. So with a relativly smaller budget I was thinking about a 350 TPI with a bigger stroke to create a 383 stroker TPI. Now I've heard all but good things about strokers I've just never seen a TPI stroker. I've looked at other threads and they say the TPI system just won't push enough air into the motor to feed the beast. But what if you installed a WS6 style ram air hood and installed the K&N Ram air box? Would that be enough air for the engine? Or do you suggest I go carbourated, with an open air element? I'm already sold on the look on the Ram Air hood, so I'm probably going to get the hood no matter what engine I put in.

 

The down fall of TPI systems in stock form is their lack of breathing ability at upper RPMs. The TPI was designed for the 305 originally. It was never intended to support higher RPM capability or larger engines like 383+. Hence the long runner design. It was built for torque. Now, with a stroker and TPI, you will have a stump puller at stop lights and such, but not the most responsive engine at higher RPMs. With some clever work with a die grinder many people have had impressive results with higher reving motors of many CIDs. Adding larger runners and siamesing the base will really open up that intake for better breathing. Changing to a HSR or Mini Ram will really allow for better breathing.

If you are going to be mostly street bound, I suggest a 383 with TPI(aftermarker or DIY modify). You will enjoy great drivablity and lots of pull form cruising and stop lights, that sort of thing.