[Viking427]

I'm building a 283 stroker motor using a 1960 283 block (#519 casting) and a mid-60's 327 small journal crank (the "original" 307 stroker combo & quite popular in the 60's). My ? is will the larger 327 crank counterweights clear the webs and bores of this vintage block ? I know at some point in time GM began casting (or machining?) the 283 blocks with enough room to accomadate the extra 1/4" stroke 327 crank without any grinding necessary, I just don't know when (ie. 1950's 283 blocks can't be used). Anybody been here, done this, or remember ? thanks

[jimfulco]

I read in a book somewhere that it can't be done. They said if you try to notch the older blocks, that you will hit water. Remember, they didn't even have 327 cranks until 1962.

[reddwarf]

Pretty sure it is possible. Seen it mentioned in a mag. article.

You're not talking about a lot of grinding. 1/4" of stroke = 1/8" more on the throws

The 283 block is superior to the 307 which had thin castings

Also, your small journal crank reduces the reciprocating and rotating mass a tiny bit. Some racers swear by this advantage.

Good luck

(sorry I can't help you with what castings to look for, but I bet BOBCRMAN can)

[64SSOwner]

I just did this with my 283 except I bored it .125 and made it into a 327.


I figured when I was building a stroker that you can use a 327SJ crank, 327 SJ rods and 307 .060 pistons and make a 313. It is possible.

I know that my '64 283 took the 327 crank without any grinding. So, u may be ok.

You can't put 350 pistons since the compression height is too much.

[buflowd]

This is the way I remember this, whatever thats worth. I think begining in '58 283's had the motor mounts moved to the side of the block. These blocks ( '59 to '62 ) can be safely bored to 4 inches. Begining in 1962 ( also the year the 327 was introduced ), the 283 block was dished at the bottom of the cylinder bores and the 327 crank would drop in. I'm of the opinion you need one of these blocks instead of trying to grind on the crank or block to get the 327 crank to fit. Expense and balancing problems I guess is my main reason. You would also need special pistons with the correct pin height, i.e. 307 stockers or aftermarket forged pistons (that would be my choice).