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Super ram / Mini Ram Educate me

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Old Jan 7, 2012 | 09:52 PM
  #101  
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Originally Posted by 1991Z07
Hard braking, too much grip in the tires, long sweeping turn and you have sustained sucking of air into the oil pickup...

I spun 3 rod bearings and cracked the crank in 3 places as well.

A good road-race style pan has 1 quart extra oil in it, and spring-loaded baffle doors to keep the oil in the pickup area.

Canton is DEFINITELY a must when you bump the traction/braking capabilities of the car
Thanks , seems like a this will be on my list for sure !
Any part number or favorite ?
thanks !
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Old Jan 7, 2012 | 09:56 PM
  #102  
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Originally Posted by Calderone
Thanks , seems like a this will be on my list for sure !
Any part number or favorite ?
thanks !
https://www.cantonracingproducts.com...on&key=15-240T

They've bumped it $50 since I bought mine 8 years ago...
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Old Jan 7, 2012 | 09:59 PM
  #103  
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Thank you, on Summit its $ 328
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/CTR-15-240T/
i was comparing it to other models , seems very cool
how's the ground clearance ?
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Old Jan 7, 2012 | 10:23 PM
  #104  
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Originally Posted by Calderone
Thank you, on Summit its $ 328
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/CTR-15-240T/
i was comparing it to other models , seems very cool
how's the ground clearance ?
Nearly the same as stock...the pan is flat on the bottom, and the side wings are what gives you the extra capacity.
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 02:48 AM
  #105  
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Originally Posted by cumbercr
I think to be fair to the OP we should not blow smoke up his a$$.
That's why I pushed the issue of (the necessity of) spending $7800 just on the block and heads. You can do it. You can plan for big power...future upgrades, etc... But it's not necessary to spend that kind of money (or buy a C5 or C6) to obtain a reasonable outcome.

Beach Bum is a reliable racer and listed a low-cost build. The numbers I listed are also (wait for it...) my real world numbers. With the exception of using a Scat crank, everything else is forged and balanced well. With a 4-bolt block, 383, AFRs, etc...I feel I have a reliable build. Most of all, I'm happy with the 383 and feel it should last quite a long time.

Had I met the kind of resistance I see in this thread, I may have run from the project. That doesn't mean I would have bought a newer vette either. Very likely, I would have stuck with the C4 I waited so long to purchase...and stayed happy.
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 02:52 AM
  #106  
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Originally Posted by 1991Z07
Nearly the same as stock...the pan is flat on the bottom, and the side wings are what gives you the extra capacity.
Of course, the scrapers and baffles don't hurt either....especially for someone planning on the occasional auto-x.

There are also auto-x-ers who run the stock oil pan. Some with an deeper filter and extra quart of oil. Guess it depends on how hard core the races are going to be.
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 10:34 AM
  #107  
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Originally Posted by GREGGPENN
That's why I pushed the issue of (the necessity of) spending $7800 just on the block and heads. You can do it. You can plan for big power...future upgrades, etc... But it's not necessary to spend that kind of money (or buy a C5 or C6) to obtain a reasonable outcome.

Beach Bum is a reliable racer and listed a low-cost build. The numbers I listed are also (wait for it...) my real world numbers. With the exception of using a Scat crank, everything else is forged and balanced well. With a 4-bolt block, 383, AFRs, etc...I feel I have a reliable build. Most of all, I'm happy with the 383 and feel it should last quite a long time.

Had I met the kind of resistance I see in this thread, I may have run from the project. That doesn't mean I would have bought a newer vette either. Very likely, I would have stuck with the C4 I waited so long to purchase...and stayed happy.
When did I ever say he has to spend $7,800? And why do you feel this is resistance? Personally, I like to listen to what a variety of experts have to say and then make my own decision.

Beachbum has some good ideas. In fact, I followed a similar path before building a new engine. I installed the Super Ram, AFR heads and headers with a mild cam. I was happy with the results until the bottom end gave up the ghost. Then the quest for more power took over. The 396 was what I could afford at the time. I also knew my quest would probably not end there. So investing more in the bottom end seemed prudent to allow for more later.

Each owner needs to make these decisions for themselves based on their own circumstances. That's why I say it's important to find a builder you trust. It doesn't cost anything to talk and explore options. There are some true expert builders on this forum. But it's a short list.
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 12:50 PM
  #108  
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Originally Posted by cumbercr
When did I ever say he has to spend $7,800? And why do you feel this is resistance?
Posts 78-87.

If I'm an outside reader, I take this thread to say anything shy of $10-$15k won't be reliable. (And really, more is necessary since you haven't addressed the rear and transmission.)

I don't see any other reason for posting your costs except as a strong indication of what you feel builders should be prepared for. Countering the lower costs I suggested with the comment "My costs are real", clearly intimated your disapproval of a lower proposed budget.
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 12:58 PM
  #109  
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I do not think there are any wrong answers.... comes down to budget. So far we have.....

- Build a low budget used parts original 350 build
- Build a low budged used parts 383 build
- Build a high dollar new parts 383 build
- Build a high dollar new parts big 400+ cubic inch build
- Buy a newer model C5 or C6 corvette

And perhaps the best idea (and most affordable) was the fella that suggested just buying somebody else's finished project. I remember not to long ago in our C4 for sale section a member had a stroker C4 for sale already done, made well over 400 HP.... his starting price I think was up around $ 10k.... and he kept lowering it trying to get any interest at all. Not sure what he sold it at, but believe it was down near half of his original asking price. Stands to reason, if you have an average condition stock C4.... you can probably get 3-6k for it on ebay easily. Therefore, sell it, then add a couple of thousand and buy yourself a powerhouse. Makes financial sense.

Funny thing is, the OP only asked which intake, the SR or MR. .... as if we would stop there !!! Next we're going to dissect if he should sell his home or just build an addition when he inquires if he should clean his gutters or just replace them.

This can be a fun place.
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 01:35 PM
  #110  
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Originally Posted by Beach Bum
Funny thing is, the OP only asked which intake, the SR or MR. .... as if we would stop there !!! Next we're going to dissect if he should sell his home or just build an addition when he inquires if he should clean his gutters or just replace them.
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 06:21 PM
  #111  
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I will add my 2 cents for what it's worth.

I have learnt from many forum members in regards to there builds especially Corvette0096, and infact incouraged me not to build a 383, and go with a 421, or a 434 for my first build, and I am very happy that I did.

I have been a member here for about a decade, and I have seen many builds, and I have also seen many a build blow up. I have also seen many a member change there builds, and go with bigger cams, bigger cylinder heads, and intakes that flow more. I have also seen multiple members build several motors for the same car.

As Jim Barth says this is "hotrodding", and if you can afford it then why not. About 5 years ago I was ready to build a 383, and the deal went sour as the engine builder was an alcoholic and I didnt trust him with my money, so I drove 12 hours roundtrip to get my parts back.

I think the best thing anyone can do is start with a good foundation meaning a good block, good machining, and a good rotating assembly, and if you need to change say an intake, or put bigger heads on then its not the end of the world!


My car is by no means the fastest car of the C4's, but the knowledge I have learnt is generally you pay for what you get.

Have a good new year everyone, and if you can afford the extra money which isn't alot try for a 4 as the first number and not a 3 if building a stroker!

Cheers!!

Last edited by 88BlackZ-51; Jan 8, 2012 at 09:01 PM.
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 06:55 PM
  #112  
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Nice post 88 ! now i want to tear up my 355 and go bigger damn it ! lol !
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 08:04 PM
  #113  
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Originally Posted by 88BlackZ-51
I will add my 2 cents for what it's worth.

I have learnt from many forum members in regards to there builds espcially Corvette0096, and infact incouraged me not to build a 383, and go with a 421, or a 434 for my first build, and I am very happy that I did.
good general rule to follow too. it's very easy to tame down a 434 to a desired hp level or bring it up if you want more. NA motors always benefit from being larger, just a larger air pump.

same rules apply to smaller engines as well, it's just with those you generally build them as strong as possible to withstand boost.
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 08:36 PM
  #114  
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Originally Posted by 88BlackZ-51
I will add my 2 cents for what it's worth.

I have learnt from many forum members in regards to there builds espcially Corvette0096, and infact incouraged me not to build a 383, and go with a 421, or a 434 for my first build, and I am very happy that I did.

I have been a member here for about a decade, and I have seen many builds, and I have also seen many a build blow up. I have also seen many a member change there builds, and go with bigger cams, bigger cylinder heads, and intakes that flow more. I have also seen multiple members build several motors for the same car.

As Jim Barth says this is "hotrodding", and if you can afford it then why not. About 5 years ago I was ready to build a 383, and the deal went sour as the engine builder was an alcoholic and I didnt trust him with my money, so I drove 12 hours roundtrip to get my parts back.

I think the best thing anyone can do is start with a good foundation meaning a good block, good machining, and a good rotating assembly, and if you need to change say an intake, or put bigger heads on then its not the end of the world!


My car is by no means the fastest car of the C4's, but the knowledge I have learnt is generally you pay for what you get.

Have a good new year everyone, and if you can afford the extra money which isn't alot try for a 4 as the first number and not a 3 if building a stroker!

Cheers!!
Well said Rick. I can't believe this obsession with trying to do things cheap. When you look at the real cost of upgrading the bottom end it just isn't that much. I have no regrets about Jim talking me into the 396. I wanted a 406 or 421 but my budget and needs didn't justify it. If you look at what Shamdave was originally looking for, he said he wanted a car that was unique. A mild 383 is about as common as they come. Go big and be proud of it!
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 09:29 PM
  #115  
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I think the problem here is that modding a car is a sickness. A person can put in thousands to make the car quicker and it will not be quick enough. My car started out as a 14 second (or 15, can't remember) warrior. Then with a progression of changes went 13, 12, 11 and now it's running mid 10's. And you know what? It's still not enough. I've got the motor out and am making a few changes to go even quicker. After that, there will be more changes next year and the year after. As someone mentioned, it all depends on budget. Now, what again is the difference between a mini and super ram?
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 09:41 PM
  #116  
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Originally Posted by 383vett
Now, what again is the difference between a mini and super ram?
I'd say you've proven the Super Ram can run with the big dogs. So I guess the difference is not much. I just love that bottom end torque.
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Old Jan 8, 2012 | 11:30 PM
  #117  
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Now for a curve ball. buddies Stock eliminator 305 CID full weight 87 camaro 9-1 Compression stock heads stock tpi ran 11.35@117 MPH.
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To Super ram / Mini Ram Educate me

Old Jan 9, 2012 | 12:17 AM
  #118  
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Originally Posted by cumbercr
I'd say you've proven the Super Ram can run with the big dogs. So I guess the difference is not much. I just love that bottom end torque.
No kidding. This is foot braking at 2200 rpms with a relatively tight converter. A little extrude honing allows me to shift at 6500. The SR has a really wide (and tall) torque band with the right combination of parts.

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Old Jan 9, 2012 | 12:20 AM
  #119  
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Originally Posted by Corvette0096
Now for a curve ball. buddies Stock eliminator 305 CID full weight 87 camaro 9-1 Compression stock heads stock tpi ran 11.35@117 MPH.
Originally Posted by cumbercr
Well said Rick. I can't believe this obsession with trying to do things cheap.
Obviously, that 305 can't be satisfying because not enough money was spent! Seriously, it would help the economy if modders stopped trying to find the least expensive way to create a good build -- and well ball's out.
We could cure the economic crisis and all have fast cars!

O.K. Now I'm really going to be serious... I think there's more pride/respect for your own car and for other custom cars if you head down the road to customization. (Or even restoration). Anyone can go out and buy something newer.

I was watching an episode of "My Ride Rules" the other day. It's only the 2nd or 3rd one I've seen but there is a wide variety of cars on the show. This particular show in question featured one owner with a C6. As usual the other cars were more custom. When it came time for the 3 non-vette owners to review the C6, they called it "just another vette". Then, they added it was "nothing special". By that, they meant it was customized and wasn't different than what you can go out and buy on a lot.

While there are people who idolize and long to buy into the Corvette dream, there are also people who appreciate a custom ride even more. I think this is a big reason C4 members knock the C5 and find ways to make their C4 personal. That includes motor work.

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Old Jan 9, 2012 | 12:39 AM
  #120  
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Originally Posted by Corvette0096
Now for a curve ball. buddies Stock eliminator 305 CID full weight 87 camaro 9-1 Compression stock heads stock tpi ran 11.35@117 MPH.
I played this game a couple of years back.

Towards the bottom of page 2 of this link:

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-t...results-2.html
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