Bunch of parts sitting around! 400 block 440 crank spare parts combo

[kamkuda]

I have a 400 block stand bore  (230 block)
440 cast crank and balancer
440 rods and pistons 
stage 6 heads
915 head
346 heads
m1 intake
bunch of carbs
roller rockers
A couple inappropriate cams I will have to get the specs

Thoughts of a 451 combo?
what pistons to use
Can I get away with the cast crank

I would like to maybe build a combo with the spare parts

[Nacho-RT74]

451 yes, althought everybody will say not to make it with a cast crank but forged, I know couple of guys who made it with cast crank ( balance will requiere more attention ) . What pistons? On the cheap, Keith black offers to build it with 400 or 440 rods. Since you already have 440 rods, would use those. KB280 would be the pistons

[kamkuda]

Good idea  Thanks

[John_Kunkel]

I would think the use of a cast crank depends on how hard you intend to run it.

[c00nhunterjoe]

The issue in todays world with this idea is the cost to machine the factory 440 parts to fit the 400 block to make the 451 costs more then buying a forged, brand new rotating assembly. But yes, you can do it. Thats the way it was done before readily available kits hit the market.

[Nacho-RT74]

For me was cost efective, being overseas and getting locally a 440 crank just needed the pistons and the machine job sure is cheaper in Vzla, but sure that must be analized.

I had a 440 cast crank, and SO MANY PPL TOLD ME that use a cast crank wasn't a good idea that I decided to get rid off and get a forged crank ( which I found 1 year later ). But after that, found ppl who made it with cast cranks without problem even for race. Sure will have its limits!

Personally used my stock 400 rods which with less rod ratio I think could be even safer for a cast crank. But whatever, I'm happy that I found a forged anyway.

[firefighter3931]

Rob,

Lots of options with a 440 crank ;

(1) turn the mains down to 400 size and run it with the 3.75 stroke = 451

(2) turn the mains down to 400 size and offset grind to 3.91 stroke = 470

Or ; install an aftermarket 4.15 or 4.25 stroke to make a 500+ monster


Ron