PJS50,
The Ersons seem to be on back-order from everyone. Try Tom at FE Specialties or George at Gessford. They might have some in stock. Flatlander Racing lists them for $585.00 so you might try them. Scat makes a 3.98 stroke (428) that uses big block Chevy size aftermarket rods. If I were building a 390 and didin't mind spending a little extra money that's the crank to use. Let's figure it: (These prices are averaged from online sources and are approximates, but close)
Scat crank, 3.98 for BBC rods $775
Eagle rods, BBC, 6.700" $475
Custom pistons and pins $650
All the other component prices should be the same as building a 390.
Advantages:
1) The Scat crank will yield 416 ci on a .030 390 block.
2) The motor is still oversquare at 4.080 bore by 3.98 stroke.
3) The longer (6.700 vs. 6.48) rod gives a superior rod angle and also makes for a lighter piston. BTW, the piston pin is still below the
oil ring so
oil consumption should not be an issue.
4)The light rod and piston assembly will make balancing very easy.
You should be able to internally balance without any (or very little) Mallory metal.
5)It will still be a revver (6500 rpm no problem)
Dissadvantages:
1) It will cost you about a grand more to build than a standard 390
2) See #1 above
If you go this way I'd have your engine guy whittle you a 'stick (hydraulic roller?)
with about 240 to 245 deg. duration @.050 with about .560" to 570" lift. Manual trans go with 110 deg lobe centers, auto trans 112 deg lobe centers. For a mechanical flat tappet cam, I'd go 10 deg more duration and .020 more lift.
I'm up for building a combo like this! Any takers? (with money
)
--Mike