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Which Engine Would You Choose

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Old Jul 2, 2008 | 11:19 AM
  #21  
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Have you considered a big block???
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Old Jul 2, 2008 | 03:36 PM
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St. Jude Donor '10
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At this point I am considering everything. That is what makes it so tough, too many options. I think my real problem is that I own two 1977 Corvettes and have to decide which one is getting sold, and which one is getting a new power plant. Tough decision as I like them both, but I think it is time for me to let one of them go.
Thanks for the suggestion though.
David
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Old Jul 2, 2008 | 06:04 PM
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I put in a GM create ZZ4 385hp fast burn alum. vortec heads. With a TKO 5 speed and 308 in the back. Went on a 3500 mile trip a got 21.5 mpg with cruise control at 80 mph
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Old Jul 2, 2008 | 06:27 PM
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We have a ZZ4 in my dad's 59' and honestly, its a turd...(dynoed 255rwhp)
i have to strongly disagree that this motor is a turd! in my old Malibu i put one these motors th350 3:73 gears Holley 600 open headers it ran 13.5s at at over a 100 mph in the quarter mile with street tires changed to a gmpp hot cam and a 750 Holley went 12.80s with street tires all on hot humid days and drove car to and from track about 90 miles one way!
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Old Jul 2, 2008 | 11:17 PM
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Okay, the vote is in and the ZZ4 wins. I like the 350/355 combination and at $4,700 for a turn key it might be the best ticket for me and my car. I also like the idea of the TKO500 5 speed and maybe changing up the rear end from my 3.08 to something more likely to give me a driver with spunk. I am trying to live up to the name I have given the car, that is, 77 Sleeper. Thanks for your help, much appreciated.
David

Last edited by AllC34Me; Jul 2, 2008 at 11:20 PM.
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Old Jul 3, 2008 | 01:00 AM
  #26  
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I think you got very nice responses for this post, but I have to add my 2 cents

Go for the GM crate motors. They are put together really well.
If your car was originally a SB, it's better not to put a BB motor in it.
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Old Jul 3, 2008 | 01:13 AM
  #27  
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Originally Posted by rajsid
I think you got very nice responses for this post, but I have to add my 2 cents

Go for the GM crate motors. They are put together really well.
If your car was originally a SB, it's better not to put a BB motor in it.
Why not a BB???
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Old Jul 3, 2008 | 02:49 AM
  #28  
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Originally Posted by 77Sleeper
I want to put a new crate engine in my 77 .....Should I 350/290; 350/330HO; or should I ZZ4 350/355?......all sound like they can set me back in my seat
Warranty is no good if it's alotta trouble to enforce/comply with; read & consider it closely well BEFORE you buy.

GM has by far the best warranty; it's easiest to enforce/comply with.

Torque is what sets you back in the seat.

Look at GM crates HT383 and ZZ383; they make lotsa torque.
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Old Jul 3, 2008 | 09:28 AM
  #29  
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Okay, I'll open up my mind for the high torque, small block, Chevy Crate Engines and do some more research. I have downloaded the Chevy Crate Engine manual and will begin reading on my ride up to our cabin in Upstate New York this afternoon. Thanks for the input, much appreciated.
David and Adam Howard
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Old Jul 3, 2008 | 09:45 AM
  #30  
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Originally Posted by sly vette
Why not a BB???
YOu need to update your suspension system before putting in a heavier motor into a car that came with a SB.
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