440 block recommendations

[bucko81]

Hello all, I have a 69 charger with no engine or tranny.  Was wanting some input on which way to go.  My car was originally a 383. I am wanting to build a everyday driver, but one that has some serious hp to it.  At least 500hp+  I am thinking a 440.  I know the blocks for the 440 where different over the years, any recommendations on which one to grab?  Any recommendations on tranny?

Thanks,
Bucko

[Chatt69chgr]

Read the info 440 Source has online and that will get you started on block selection.  Then read:

http://www.arengineering.com/articles/articleframe.html

the article at the ar engineering site about sonic checking a block. 

What flavor of tranny, auto or manual?

[bucko81]

Auto

[bucko81]

It sounds like the 400 block is the way to go.  Any specific year that is better than others?

[Rayzor]

From what I have seen about all 400 blocks are the same. People seem to favor early blocks for some reason though.  Are you thinkin on building a 452 stroker out of the 400 block?

[bucko81]

Yes, I am looking to build a good all round motor, with some serious hp, but still can be a daily driver. 

[Rayzor]

Its kinda hard to beat the 440 as far as a bolt on and go performer. Yes the 400 has some good qualities as far as a block goes, but the 440 is not a weak link in anybodys book. Besides, if you dont already have a engine, you will need to source parts from both the 400 and 440 to build one motor. I do not know what your budget is but buying a good complete 440 from a car would push you ahead in the game by setting you up with all the brackets etc. and possibly the trans with it. Getting 500 horse out of a 440 is not that difficult with proper parts selection. Lots of guys here can point you along. So my vote goes for build a 440.

[RD]

do you want a stroker or just a 440?

400 is a stronger block due to the lower deck height, and if you get a early 400 casting from July 71-Oct 71 you will have a block that has the thickest main web casting of any OE stock BB engine.

If you dont want to spend a lot of money, go with a 440.. if you want to and got it to spend.. hit a 400 stroker.. or stroke the 440.. this whole thing is really a crapshoot until you define exactly what you are going to use the car for.