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1977 Corvette crate engine?

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Old May 3, 2007 | 05:52 PM
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Default 1977 Corvette crate engine?

For a 1977 Corvette is a 400HP Crate Engine to much for this car? I'm thinking about getting a 1977 Corvette but I want a faster engine. I was wondering if I'll have any problems if I put a 400HP engine in this car? Are there any modifications I should do to the drivetrain for this? And does anyone have a link for a good, reliable 350 with around 400hp, or mabey alittle more?
What is the most HP engine I can put in this car without serious modifacations, and still being reliable?
Thanks

Last edited by nycorvettekid; May 3, 2007 at 05:55 PM.
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Old May 3, 2007 | 06:47 PM
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Default Engine

I believe a GM ZZ4 with Edelbrock Performer heads will get you to 400 from 385..


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Old May 3, 2007 | 07:08 PM
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You really haven't given much info on the car but a typical 77 has enough age and miles on it that pretty much the entire driveline will need to be freshened up before it will be reliable with that horsepower. I am referring to u-joints, rear bearings, stub axles, etc. The tranny may also need some work depending on what you have.
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Old May 3, 2007 | 07:13 PM
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I'd get a new tranny when I get the engine.
How much should I be looking to spend for a 400hp engine w/tranny, drivetrain stuff, installation & everything. How much when I'm all said and done should I expect to pay?
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Old May 3, 2007 | 08:12 PM
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I have a 77 with unknowed milage, I have spent three times as much money into the suspention, brakes (SAFETY), frame and drive train upgrades than I did with the 383 engine that in her now. I don't think it is wise to just throw in a 400 HP engine into a car with out figuring out the cost of upgradeing the suspension, brakes and drive train first. Speed cost $$$.
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Old May 3, 2007 | 09:33 PM
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well you will need to be able to steer, stop and keep it under control......so you may need alot depending on the shape of your suspension, steering and rear trailing arms, struts and differential
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Old May 4, 2007 | 02:03 AM
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Originally Posted by 77 vette
I have a 77 with unknowed milage, I have spent three times as much money into the suspention, brakes (SAFETY), frame and drive train upgrades than I did with the 383 engine that in her now. I don't think it is wise to just throw in a 400 HP engine into a car with out figuring out the cost of upgradeing the suspension, brakes and drive train first. Speed cost $$$.
Make sure the suspension, steering and brakes are ready to go first.
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Old May 4, 2007 | 03:58 AM
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crate engine for ~400 hp

385 fast Burn GMPP 350ci
+
Lt4 hot cam kit
-->
ZZ430 "clone"
430hp@5800rpm
430Ft.Lbs@4000rpm



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