383 Build - Help
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
383 Build - Help
Hello all,
I have decided to do a 383 build. I'm looking for a streetable 500hp/500tq. It has been many years since I have taken on a project like this, and I would like to eliminate stupid mistakes.
Is there a certain year range of blocks that are more desirable for a build like this. I'm sure I want a 4 bolt block. But other than that, is there anything to avoid?
Thanks for any help.
I have decided to do a 383 build. I'm looking for a streetable 500hp/500tq. It has been many years since I have taken on a project like this, and I would like to eliminate stupid mistakes.
Is there a certain year range of blocks that are more desirable for a build like this. I'm sure I want a 4 bolt block. But other than that, is there anything to avoid?
Thanks for any help.
Pro
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 645
Likes: 1
From: Hayward Wi
i think u want to avoid blocks that have been alredy bored .30 over lol.
i know there is an sight out there that lists the no no blocks.
most larger journal 302, 327, and 350 blocks should be ok in theory but only and bore sounding would determine if u can or cant with them. you could go buy an new block though to.
i know there is an sight out there that lists the no no blocks.
most larger journal 302, 327, and 350 blocks should be ok in theory but only and bore sounding would determine if u can or cant with them. you could go buy an new block though to.
Race Director
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 19,610
Likes: 778
From: Forked River NJ
What do you consider streetable. A daily driver streetable is different than a weekend car streetable. My 385 (.040 over) is streetable and around 500 HP but I would not want it to be a daily driver. If you are looking for a smooth 500 HP you had better go up over 400 ci for a streetable 500 HP. A 383 can be done but it needs very good heads and a fairly big cam to make 500 HP.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 6,231
Likes: 65
From: Seattle WA
St. Jude Donor '14
If you're starting from scratch and you're really looking for those power numbers, an aftermarket block is the starting point. 
Bring money.
Move the targets down a bit and an 87-98 roller cam block is an excellent foundation - you will want a roller cam to get maximum streetability at those power levels. Other parts selection comes from trans/gearing.
There are several...lively...threads with configuration guidance currently burning in this forum on the board. A little search will provide some good starting points
Bring money.Move the targets down a bit and an 87-98 roller cam block is an excellent foundation - you will want a roller cam to get maximum streetability at those power levels. Other parts selection comes from trans/gearing.
There are several...lively...threads with configuration guidance currently burning in this forum on the board. A little search will provide some good starting points
Last edited by billla; Aug 28, 2009 at 07:42 PM.
Race Director
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 19,610
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From: Forked River NJ
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Team Owner
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 30,183
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From: Lake Norman NC
500hp in a streetable 383 is very easy...all in the right combo of parts and dialing in the tune. Definitely roller cam around the 230/240ish range, AFR 195 heads, around a 10CR, single plane intake, and 500hp on the engine dyno all day long.
Instructor
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 154
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From: Indiana
Will any Dart 400 block work? Are there specific part numbers and dates we should look for is trying to find used? I am also looking to do a similar build.
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Intermediate
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jegs.com
Last edited by Allthrottleandsomebottle; Aug 31, 2009 at 04:58 PM. Reason: no links to non-supporting vendors folks..........
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 6,231
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From: Seattle WA
St. Jude Donor '14
At the 500HP level, just about any aftermarket block is fine just remember when you're buying one of these used, they've been used hard...so either take the risk or ask the seller to agree that it passes mag/pressure or you get your $$$ back. More likely to find good used cores at your local machine shop than on the 'net.
Instructor
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 154
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From: Indiana
Bloozeman, I saw that number in the earlier post for a new block. I was thinking of looking for used block ans wanted to know if there were a list of product to get or stay away from...
Last edited by Allthrottleandsomebottle; Aug 31, 2009 at 04:57 PM.
Drifting
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Folks..............a friendly reminder, no links to non-supporting vendors.
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Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2004
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From: belle plaine ks
Gm is still selling the 383 shortblock, and with afr heads and a good roller cam you should get fairly close. Are you trying to piece one together cheaply or do it right? Any time you want that level of horsepower you need to spend a little to get a little. The gm shortblock comes with a forged steel crankshaft.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2009
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From: A town SC