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Well, let us start out with what kind of budget you are talking about, its kind of tough to say with out knowing your definition of "cheep". Also would you be doing the work yourself or hiring it out? The labor in it self can make a big difference. Also before we move to far we need more information on your current engine. For example is it a bone stock LS454 or already slightly modified. If its already been slightly modified give us some details of whats been done: stuff like carb size and type, intake manifold type, heads, headers, cam, pistons, ect. The more information you can give us the more informed advice people on the forum will gladly chip in. We love this stuff, and I started out with a 73 LS454 myself and have some tips, but need more info.
I want to beef up my 72 vet it has a 454/270hp motor. What can I do to get about 400/425 hp that is the cheepest way?
Thanks,Randy
Cheapest way = 150hp shot of nitrous
Other than that, the only way you will gain that kind of hp is with an intake,heads,cam,headers,and proper exhaust. Unfortunately hp is not cheap unless it comes from a bottle.
Other than that, the only way you will gain that kind of hp is with an intake,heads,cam,headers,and proper exhaust. Unfortunately hp is not cheap unless it comes from a bottle.
What about those heads that were on the 427/ 435hp vettes? Would those clear the pistons on a 454? You might be able to Ebay some nice GM aluminum heads, an aluminum intake, and some cheap sidepipes. Buy a big flat tappet cam with some new lifters and you should be at your goal if not past it. The stock carb, and dist should hold up just fine right?
I would think 450hp from a 454 would be easy as pie.
1) Start with some free flowing exhaust... headers, new pipes, and good mufflers.
2) get some more cash together and get a new intake/carb setup.
3) put in a nice ignition system
4) get LOTS MORE cash together, and change out the heads/cam
once thats done, you'll have a nice grin on your face... but probly wont last long, as you'll want more and more HP. Its a terrible disease we all suffer from.