I am just starting to modify my car and am wondering about what type, size, etc. of converter to use. I am going to install a comp cams xtreme energy hydraulic flat tappet cam(218/224 dur@0.050, .462/.469 lift. and vortec heads off of a 96-97 chevy truck. and a few other mods. should be putting out around 300hp and just under 300 ft/lb. of torque. thanks guys.

 

You buying a custom built converter or an off the shelf one?

 

First, on the Vortec heads. Make sure that you are getting heads from a 350, not a 305. A lot of shifty types have been trying to pass off the 305 heads as "Vortec" heads lately. They are Vortec heads, but they suck for performance. Also, have the heads magnafluxed to ensure that they aren't cracked. This is an all too common problem with used Vortec heads. GM did a terrible job sealing the intake on these engines, which was compounded by their desire to run that orange extended life antifreeze. Then factor in the fact that most owners never do the proper routine maintenence and you've got a recipe for disaster. I've repaired six trucks over the past year that all had Vortec motors and various problems ranging from leaking intakes to cracked heads, to a motor hydrolocked with fuel that snapped the crank in half. In truth, if I was contemplating this swap I'd just buy new heads from Scoggin Dickey. They are very reasonable, and come with valvesprings already set up for higher than stock cam lift.

On your converter, what car is this going into? What rear gear are you running? Is the rest of the motor stock except for the cam? What's the lobe seperation angle on the cam? What motor is it (305 or 350)? How often do you drive the car on the highway? With answers to these questions I will be more able to make a recommendation.