Engine ideas
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
Engine ideas
Hi Guys,
Just picked up my first vette a 1979. I am wondering how a 383 stroker would fit in it. I have the opportunity to get one relatively cheap. Do you think the stock converter and tranny will be able to handle it? The guy Im buying it from says it has about 400 hp, 11-1 compression but he's never seen it running. Thanks
Just picked up my first vette a 1979. I am wondering how a 383 stroker would fit in it. I have the opportunity to get one relatively cheap. Do you think the stock converter and tranny will be able to handle it? The guy Im buying it from says it has about 400 hp, 11-1 compression but he's never seen it running. Thanks
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,353
Likes: 72
From: Graceland in a Not Correctly Restored Stingray
383 (or larger) SB is a very sound idea. However, IMCO 11:1 could be pushing things a bit for pump gas if the engine combo isn't well matched. Do you trust that's the case? ...and even if it is a superb build, does it suit your purposes?
If it turns out to have crappy manners (assuming that matters) and the power band isn't where you actually need it, you could end up disappointed. I'd suggest doing some more homework (including on the engine's condition) so you'll know whether it's the right call for you before pulling the trigger.
If it turns out to have crappy manners (assuming that matters) and the power band isn't where you actually need it, you could end up disappointed. I'd suggest doing some more homework (including on the engine's condition) so you'll know whether it's the right call for you before pulling the trigger.
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 3,593
Likes: 103
From: Southern Indiana
Hi Guys,
Just picked up my first vette a 1979. I am wondering how a 383 stroker would fit in it. I have the opportunity to get one relatively cheap. Do you think the stock converter and tranny will be able to handle it? The guy Im buying it from says it has about 400 hp, 11-1 compression but he's never seen it running. Thanks
Just picked up my first vette a 1979. I am wondering how a 383 stroker would fit in it. I have the opportunity to get one relatively cheap. Do you think the stock converter and tranny will be able to handle it? The guy Im buying it from says it has about 400 hp, 11-1 compression but he's never seen it running. Thanks
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
Thanks for the thoughts.
I love some power, but I dont plan on taking it to the track. More of a weekend driver that can get out of its way. I want it to have as much HP as possible but still be able to take a 200 mile road trip. I can get the 383 complete for around 4000 less if I trade the original 350 in.
I love some power, but I dont plan on taking it to the track. More of a weekend driver that can get out of its way. I want it to have as much HP as possible but still be able to take a 200 mile road trip. I can get the 383 complete for around 4000 less if I trade the original 350 in.
Last edited by jt1k; Oct 7, 2011 at 08:58 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 1,232
Likes: 6
From: Tucson AZ
St. Jude Donor '12
Not sure where you live, but if you're anywhere near AZ, I have a nearly new 383 & fresh B&M TH350 w/ 2800 TC that I'll be selling soon. Even if you don't want it, if your nearby you can come over and I can take you for a spin so you can see/hear the difference.
Thanks for the thoughts.
I love some power, but I dont plan on taking it to the track. More of a weekend driver that can get out of its way. I want it to have as much HP as possible but still be able to take a 200 mile road trip. I can get the 383 complete for around 4000 less if I trade the original 350 in.
I love some power, but I dont plan on taking it to the track. More of a weekend driver that can get out of its way. I want it to have as much HP as possible but still be able to take a 200 mile road trip. I can get the 383 complete for around 4000 less if I trade the original 350 in.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 5,116
Likes: 5
From: Livonia MI
Yup, you sure do. While a 383's just a bored/stroked 350, and will drop right in, the mentioned combo sounds a bit much compression/cam for street cruising. Figure max on very fresh 93 pump gas to be 10.25 compression iron heads, and 10.5 aluminum. If the price is right, maybe go for it, expecting some wrenching/changes of your own. Best getting the intended set up close, before dropping it in.
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