Anyone run the Paxton Supercharger on a 340?

[MoparRocks]

Hey all. So I'm kind of looking at options for some more power in my Charger. It's a 71 that's had a 340 dropped into it. Has the 727 trans. I was thinking about dropping a 440 into it originally. However that is a large expense and a fairly large undertaking of a project. Browsing around on Summit Racing last night I came across this supercharger set up from Paxton.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/pax-1201851/overview/

So I was wondering if anyone on here has installed one of these. If so are you happy with it? Any issues you've run into running it?

I will point out I don't intend to race this car, might take it to the local race once or twice just for giggles but it's mostly a weekend car.

And the charger in question:

[Ghoste]

A guy I know had one on a smallblock Ford and it ran real well but it did take him some time to get the carb dialed .  Is there a Mr. Norm Demon forum out there somewhere?

[myk]

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but I figure installing a 440 motor will be cheaper than setting up your current mill to run forced induction.  How's your 340?  Is it in good health?  What are it's specs?  With the wrong compression ratio, forced induction could be a mistake....

[tan top]

 think I would go for a 440 !  think it will be quicker & cheaper in the long run ! 

[Ghoste]

I have to throw in and agree on the long run part too.  But if you only 3500 to spend and want to boost and go right now...
(of course by that rationale, nitrous might be the cheapest shortcut of all)

[John_Kunkel]

So I was wondering if anyone on here has installed one of these.

Reminiscent of Mr. Norm's (Grand Spaulding Dodge) 1971-72 Dodge Demon GSS (Grand Spaulding Special).

[chargd72]

I'm currently setting up my '72 for a 408 and a Paxton Novi 2000.  The kit you're looking at is the Novi 1200 which moves about 1050 cfm of air.  If you are running stock heads and keep boost at around 6 lbs, lock out your timing you will be fine.  Not optimal, but fine.  Things forced induction motors don't like: low fuel (what size pump and lines are you running), advanced timing (will you run a controller?), high compression (over 9:1?).  You will also need a blow thru carb which aren't cheap and it would be wise to run a wideband to make sure you're not running lean.  For what you're looking for, a 440 is the way to go.  You can far exceed what a naturally aspirated 440 can do with a properly setup SB with forced induction.  But it takes a lot of $, time and tuning.

[Troy]

Tough choice.

To go to a 440 you need a transmission too (big blocks and small blocks have different mounting patterns). If your car still has all the factory suspension you'll want (at least) the big block torsion bars and leaf springs. Don't forget exhaust (or at least manifolds/headers) and motor mounts. At one point I ran across a freshly rebuilt but slightly used 440 for $2,200. I needed an intake and carb which I already had laying around. Don't count on finding a deal like that but if you can come close you're still ahead of the supercharger in the cost department (even after buying all the other stuff I mentioned). Plus, you can sell the 340 and 727 to recoup a big chunk of your investment. I doubt if I'd switch from a 340 to a "stock"(ish) 440. The torque will be a bonus but you can get a lot more with some improvements. There goes a pile of money...

For the race inspired look you have going and the fact that you don't have a hood with a bulge or scoop, I'd probably go with a 383 or 400 stroker *if you're going to build something*. Lots of torque and a higher RPM range than a 440 but a lower overall height so you can play with carb spacers and air cleaners. The nice part about this is that a 383 or 400 will be a dirt cheap place to start so you have more money for "the good stuff".

The blower will be nice but you have to be aware of what's currently in the motor. It's a more complicated/complex setup with a bit more to go wrong. As mentioned, make sure the fuel requirements are met. More money...

Another alternative that's cheap and simple is to stroke a 5.9 Magnum. You'll have less in parts than the blower plus you can sell the 340 for probably more than half the cost. You'll only need the correct torque converter for the transmission (unless you have the engine balanced when built) and a set of motor mounts. Your 340 exhaust, accessories, and carb (with the right intake) will fit.

Troy