How to choose a SBC engine

Jump to: navigation, search
Line 1: Line 1:
I am considering a drive train to place into an '82 Chevy SWB 4x4. I want to set the truck up for some limited street driving, but will also want to off road with it frequently. The factory engine is a 305.
+
Engine choices can be hard when there are so many to choose from.. The choice of a SBC can be an easy one if you want a cheap reliable engine that can produce a good amount of horsepower.. As a SBC can come in a size as small as 262 CI all the way to well over 400 CI in custom built engines, they all have there purpose. you wouldn't put a 262 in a truck, but you may put it in a Monza if you want MPG
  
I have a 327 that was in a 3 ton grain truck. It was factory fitted with oversized valves, and always had awesome acceleration. I also have access to a 350 for rebuilding.
 
  
I am looking for some good advice on what power plant to build out, and pros / cons for each. I plan to rebuild the auto tranny currently in the truck. Suggestions on this are appreciated as well.
+
 
 +
262 CI: used from 1978-1981, low hp, smog engine designed for reliability with high MPG
 +
265 CI: Chevrolet's first SBC. Far surpassed in performance by the 283 and 327 engines that came shortly after.. consider this one for restorations only
 +
267 CI: used from 1978-1981, low hp, smog engine designed for reliability with high MPG.
 +
283 CI: Chevy's first engine to produce 1hp per CI. provides hp in the higher RPM, good for light cars and higher RPM
 +
301 CI:  This is a .125 overbore 283, it only works on some blocks and is no longer recommended practice
 +
302 CI: The Z/28 engine used for a short while. Great for high RPM hp and T/A racing... if you can find one
 +
305 CI: Decent engine, not good for performance, but decent enough for a lightweight or the vehicles they came in
 +
327 CI: Good engine for higher RPM hp, can be built for high RPM racing and such.. strong runners
 +
350 CI: America's most popular SBC.. not much need be said, they fit most budgets and expectations, great all around engine
 +
355 CI: .030 over 350
 +
358 CI: .060 over 350
 +
383 CI: 350 block with a 3.75 crank.. Considered when low end hp or torque are necessary.. requires external balancing
 +
400 CI: Requires external balancing, decent engine all togther.

Revision as of 18:28, 3 July 2009

Personal tools
Namespaces
Variants
Actions
Navigation
Categories
Toolbox