[DorkMissile]

Looking at starting my specs for my winter build, but want to see if there might be someone with some data on the research I am doing.

My target is for 850-900hp with my current s/c - so I am thinking I need to do rods and the pistons. Would really like to keep the crank in place, if the crank needs to come out I will just go ahead and do a 4” stroke and buy a complete balanced assembly.

As far as using the stock crank - there are many “drop in” pistons, and then some options for rod & pistons that dont need re-balancing, however I have a target to actually lower the compression which seems to limit my options. (10.5:1 Compression)

I really like the JE Ultra piston, and would not blink an eye at buying some Compstar or Molnar rods, but am struggling to find data on what is actually “drop in” and what isn’t based on the weight.

[Choda]

I used a short block from gtrain on here. Check it out here https://www.camaro6.com/forums/showthread.php?t=554303

[oldman]

I like the response of a small cam and 11.5 CR. In my opinion at 700 or so wheel, you run into the detonation limit of 93 octane. so about 800 engine HP.

Since E85 is easy to get I figure I could reach 750 wheel or about 860 engine. I think I'm OK with GPI piston and rod for $1700. Over 750 wheel I would go:

Once you go to 10.5 I would not look at drop ins. I think you need to rebalance and run the piston rod combo that can support the combo. Realistically this combo from Cunningham, WeaponX etc is going to run $2500 to $3000 ballanced, bearings all in.


You do have the option to stroke for $200 to $300 more to 416. The stroke engine does offer more torque for any cylinder pressure. It also offers more HP per PSI of boost. Lastly it drops the overall operating RPM, which IMO breaks stuff on a OHV engine. So I would always go with a rebalance and components selected to keep together at this range, forget the "drop in". We are talking 900 HP engine,.