400 blocks

[Wicked72]

I found out I have a 76-78 400 engine. casting number 4006530. Will it be good to build is there a diff year 400 that is better?

[71383bee]

Your fine with what you have.  400 is a good motor. Just needs help with compression that is all. 

[RD]

if ya want to get technical, the "best" (and I say that sparingly) 400 block is the 230 (big number) casting that was cast from july to october 1971.  it has the thick main webs and is sometimes called a cold weather block.

[71383bee]

Ohh man thats true, but his 400 is probably more than fine for what he wants to do.  I am guessing a mild build in the 400 to 450 range which is easily attained with good heads, a cam, intake, carb, and headers. 

[RD]

Ohh man thats true, but his 400 is probably more than fine for what he wants to do.  I am guessing a mild build in the 400 to 450 range which is easily attained with good heads, a cam, intake, carb, and headers. 

totally agree

[Wicked72]

I was think close to 600hp range. would caps and a girdle be all I need to make the block strong enough? I am build a 500 stroker. so the internals will be fine, I am just concerned with the strength of the block.

[71383bee]

600!  Okay now I would like to know how your gonna manage that on a stock cast crank 400.  400 hp is pretty easy and relatively cheap.  500 and up on a 400 will definitely involve a stroker.  Anything beyond will need some serious planning...external oiling, roller rockers, definitely aftermarket heads, your creeping in to dominator range for carb, and you will have massive cooling and handling issues that will need to be addressed.  The 8 3/4 will be at its limits and the stock suspension will not have it.  The torque produced will most likely twist the unibody like a pretzel and bust all of the windows so a minimum of subframe connectors will be needed and a cage if your ever gonna race it at the track.   This will be an interesting build to watch. 

[Wicked72]

like I said im building<< a 500 stroker. All I want to know is about the block....thats it. I am going aftermarket everything(except the block). The block is the only thing I am using.
Dont worry this isnt my first ballgame I know what Im doing.