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Engine rebuild thoughts

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Old Feb 14, 2011 | 02:45 PM
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Default Engine rebuild thoughts

I won't be ready for this for 'a while', but...
I've got access to a '96 4 bolt main vortec engine that is complete. Thinking along these lines:
Basic rebuild kit (Northern)
Have the heads worked for higher lift cam
GM hot cam kit (GMparts Direct)
should be good for ~300 rwhp? and still be pretty darn reasonably priced, I'm thinking less than $2k.
Am I leaving anything on the table for the money? Refuse to open the stroker can-o-worms because I know how I am, I'd have plans for an $8k motor that would never get funded.
Russ
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Old Feb 14, 2011 | 03:42 PM
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What will the exhaust system consist of?
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Old Feb 14, 2011 | 03:50 PM
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Thinking of headers and duals similar to stock, no sidepipes.
Intake: Probably a Performer Air Gap, and stay with the Q-jet.
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Old Feb 22, 2011 | 10:27 PM
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Default While you're doing the motor, have someone put a different rear gear in it.

It's the single biggest thing that you can do to change the performance of the engine. Stock ratio on a Dana 44 rear end is 2.37; try a 3.31 or 3.42. You can work with a speed chart to determine your mph at a given rpm. Look on the internet for one of those or call a manufacturer's tip line. Double check my numbers before you spend money. Happy motoring!
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Old Feb 23, 2011 | 11:49 AM
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Originally Posted by russde
I won't be ready for this for 'a while', but...
I've got access to a '96 4 bolt main vortec engine that is complete. Thinking along these lines:
Basic rebuild kit (Northern)
Have the heads worked for higher lift cam
GM hot cam kit (GMparts Direct)
should be good for ~300 rwhp? and still be pretty darn reasonably priced, I'm thinking less than $2k.
Am I leaving anything on the table for the money? Refuse to open the stroker can-o-worms because I know how I am, I'd have plans for an $8k motor that would never get funded.
Russ
perfect! why not simply clone a yearone CT350pc1?

Year One's motor based on '96-up iron head vortec roller (vin code "R" aka L31) & guaranteed to make at least 400hp&tq at Flywheel. Still has dished pistons, but vortecs are mildly ported w/ ~ .525" valvelift (LT4 hotcam w/ 1.6 rockers). Lotsa folks run that piece.

OE vortec pistons have very desirable thin metric ringpak: 1.5mm, 1.5mm, 3mm. Most OE code R motors do Not have a completed mech fuel pump boss; can be finished at local shop.

most budget rebuild kits will have thick rings for thick ring pistons & thick head gaskets ... this gonna be a cheap date anyway... why not do it right.

FYI: good non-GM replacement piston w/ thin metric ringpak is sealed power aka speed pro p/n H815; yes they cost more than budget pieces.

http://www.yearone.com/serverfiles/f...archid=5194662
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