Hi all.

Sorry to ask a long winded question, but for those patient enough to read through, my thanks.

I am an English guy living in Australia, and after living here about 5 years I am finally about to receive my 1968 327 / 350 convertable that I had left in England.

When it arrives I have several projects lined up for it as the poor thing hasnt had any major work done during my 11 or so years of ownership, other than a respray in the first year.

The particular part of the project I wish to ask about involves a part / or complete engine rebuild. Despite the length of the post I am missing some bits out here, so I will have to ask you to make some assumptions (e.g that I will have the engine stripped and checked out etc, that I have ordered a number of books on the subject to read before I get my hands dirty, and so on).

Another minor spanner in the works is that reading through the list of vehicle numbers that I forgot I had (compiled by the previous owner) I am actually no longer sure that I really have a 327 / 350, but may have a 327 / 300 as the combination of block / heads / carb are not consistent with what I have found on the net. As the car is in transit I cannot double check, but the block number does at least confirm it to be a 1968 327. (I knew that it wasnt the original engine, so despite the minor irritation I wasnt exactly swindled)

Anyway, I am in particular confused about the array of top end kits available. From what I have seen so far there are the;

Holley Systemax
Edelbrock Power Package
Trick Flow Super 23
Summit Top End Packs
Dart Pro 1,

and I am sure, many more out there.

I have a goal of making 400HP, which is on the one hand arbitrary, but on the other hand, a goal that I have had for some time, so I am sticking to it (despite what I am sure are many good reasons not to bother), but I am sceptical that bolting on one of these kits can have such a dramatic effect as claimed.

Can anyone tell me whether they have any direct or indirect experience with such kits. Pro's and cons of any brands (or of the kits in general), and in particular any knowledge of thier use on a 327 of a similar generation. I am really keen to know if these represent a viable and effective step toward (or to complete) my aspirations.

I am sure there is much more information that could help you help me, so I am happy to add anything required. Equally, whilst I wouldnt turn down some direct advice as to what to buy, but I am really looking for options rather than specific direction, as ultimately I know I will have to make some decisions myself.... but any and all assitance is much much appreciated.

Many many thanks

Dave.

 

all the kits you have listed would be good choices except for the summit brand..there may be others who dis agree but from my experience with broken valve springs, clips coming off hydraulic lifters etc. i would avoid summits own brand..they do own trick flow and the parts seem to be an up grade.....you must build the mill around the compression you want to run.....the pistons you choose will be the start of your "blueprinting" for compatibility with other components......good luck.....

 

Thanks for the response.. helps me narrow the choices a little.

If the others are all good choices then I think it will come down to cost.

As for the pistons / compression, I'll have to wait until I get my "mongrel" engine stripped before I see what I have got to work with.

Thanks again.