[69 chevelle SS]

Hey Guys I've got a question about the 1969 396 that came in the Chevelle SS. I just got the car a couple weeks ago and took it to my mechanic. He started looking at the engine and said that I need to be really careful with the motor and that it wasn't the type of motor to modify, because the 396 is "notorious for dropping cylinders 3 and 5". My question is can anyone verify that? and what kind of power could i get out of a built 396? I'm only 17 so a 454 is kinda outta my price range right now.

Thanks,
Tim

[abe]

well i dont know about dropping cylinders. but any big block in good shape is worth keeping and rebuilding. the only draw back is big blocks cost big bucks. Have it checked at a local machine shop with a good reputation. If its all good go ahead and rebuild it. At 17 yrs old i assume u dont have alot of money. go with a quality rebuild kit and dont go over board with a big cam and carb. .keep it small if its to be used on the street. reliablity is more important then keeping up wtih the jones.

[rigweldertom]

396 will be a beast , 400hp easy with just a little work intake and headers , DON'T believe him he probally hopes you will decide to pull the motor and he can get it. look at front of block under timing cover it says HI-PERF , all 69 396's did its a high nickle block THAT STANDS FOR HIGH PERFORMANCE. don't let nobody bull**** you YOU GOT SOMETHING don't let it go

[woodz428]

The only 396 problems I am aware of (and it's from working a machine shop that serviced the dealer) was oil consumption in the early ones. I think it had as much to do with the factory ring set up as anything. Although a Ford guy, I had many friends that ran them and never heard of the cylinder problem he's referring to.

[pi71]

cool i just aquired a 69 396 engine that im building