Stroke said:
You need to set a goal, a realistic goal. Then, no matter what you use, or how you go about getting there, make your goal. IMO those are el cheapo cast pistons, and sure they'd work, but what is it you are going to do with this engine? You could throw them in and add some cam along with some budget priced stuff and get what you want, or, go whole hog and make it exactly what you want without worry. First thing though, you need a specific goal for this engine and need to know where it is going to spend it's life, happily.
Exactly what you wrote. Firstly, I am a technical guy by trade, Industrial Electrican and HVAC. I am no stranger to wrenching on machinery like motorcycles 2 & 4 stroke. I have experience in setting up Harley motors & transmissions. I like to wrench stuff. My father owned a VW motor rebuilding shop that built motors both for sale to the public & for machine shops. I worked there at times for extra money. I am within spitting distance of retirement, so money is of concern.
I have modified 2 auto engines, and been disappointed in both.
I would like a truck built around a 350 sbc. When I step on the gas, I would like it to go as fast or faster than traffic. mileage is not an issue with me. I am willing to give up some bottom end torque for some scoot. My plans are to address the rear end with 3.73 or 4.11 gears, coupled to a stall converter with around a 2600-3000 stall to work with the cam that was recommended.
All of my motors in the past have been built around 79cc heads, and I have learned the low compression is one heck of a hurdle in the pursuit of decent HP.
What I am learning now is the importance of proper quench and thee role it plays in compression, detonation and proper spark curve. I am learning this stuff and some here are helping me a great deal.
Some are forthcoming with the help, and others have to have the information dragged out of them with an engine hoist. I like the attitude of F-bird'88. Tech-inspector is another wise one, but sometimes he comes across as a bit condescending.
If indexing the block and heads is a requirement (born of experience and knowledge of others) for a proper motor set up, then this I will have to do. I have in the past always asked for a rebore when fitting new pistons. From what I know, pistons were always bored undersized then honed for each piston clearance. Maybe things are different now.
I need to be able to call on others to tell me if I am going cheap (bad!) or bargain with my parts selection. Some stuff is a bargain because it has been out there for a zillion years. That does not make it a cheap part.
This is my F-bird'88 suggested build:
a basic 350ci SBC short block with flat top pistons
+ 062 or 906 GM vortec heads
Isky #205D valves springs minus the inner damper
Stock OEM vortec retainers, seals locks and rocker arms
Isky #201278 camshaft 278-278 .450" .450" lift 234-234@.050" 106° LSA
Edelbrock Performer RPM Manifold and 750cfm 4bbl carb
1-5/8" headers 2.5" dual exhaust.
This combo makes more power and torque than the Edelbrock RPM cam will make without needing vortec cylinder head machining modifications to accomodate the .488"-.510" valve lift of the Edelbrock RPM camshaft.
Should use a 10" high stall torque converter and 3.73 to 4.10 rear gearing for best results. (same as the rpm cam needs)
Isky #201288 will make even more top end power all with just .450" valve lift.
Degree the cam in on a 102°-103° intake C/L for best results.
All help is appreciated always.
I am not so smart as to know everything there is about this subject, and I am smart enough to know that. This is where you guys come in.
Your success is going to be shared, and I thank you for that. I really do.