ERA 789 Build

patrickt · #1 (**permalink**) 11-07-2010, 12:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kgs365

is not doing it...i fully expect after you choke it down with a small air filter and side pipes that would be a good place to end up...part of the problem is if your going to build a "nice house" you also have to furnish it!...i'm not sure i have the right furnishings at this point

If it was 370 with open pipes on the dyno, I agree with you; that's not going to be enough power. But that doesn't mean you have to go all the way to the other end of the spectrum on engine building/cost. Chas. gave some good advice on maybe tweaking up the 390. If you're having ERA do the entire build it will be beautiful, and they do a meticulous job, but you do need to keep an eyeball on the costs (and a new sideoiler build ain't cheap).

You know, if it was me, I would probably do exactly what ERA Chas suggested. I would put the 390 in and enjoy the car and see what I thought. Then if I wanted more power I would just pull the engine, put it in a crate, and ship it off to one of the builders (at the end of the driving season). You'd have it back and in the car before the spring weather returned. I think that's a pretty good plan.

RodKnock · #2 (**permalink**) 11-07-2010, 12:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by patrickt

Then if I wanted more power I would just pull the engine, put it in a crate, and ship it off to one of the builders (at the end of the driving season). You'd have it back and in the car before the spring weather returned. I think that's a pretty good plan.

I've always had a motto.

First time, on time, one time.

For me, pulling and reinstalling engines is not easy. You're certainly increasing the probability for damage to occur and increasing the cost of the build.

Also, for me, and for me alone, I didn't want to have to explain why I didn't install a 427.

kgs365 · #3 (**permalink**) 11-07-2010, 01:03 PM

i agree the thought off putting in a temp motor then pulling it out...the risks of paint damage of a 500 lb motor swinging on a crane..just aint that appealing

patrickt · #4 (**permalink**) 11-07-2010, 01:21 PM

Well, some of the parts on there now will bolt right on the new motor, like the alternator, starter motor. But you don't want to pull too much off since you probably want to sell the 390 and not just keep it in the back. Rod, what does a reasonably decent 427 cost now (meaning, all loaded up and delivered to your door, or ERA's door)?

kgs365 · #5 (**permalink**) 11-07-2010, 01:39 PM

i dont think its going to be that bad becuase as patrick pointed out all the external parts will bolt up...its a matter of finding an old block (in Mass we have strict laws) and having it machined to be square, no cracks..etc then built..it wont be as bad as starting all over or buying a KB prepared motor..compared to the price of the ERA the motor is relatively minor..ha ha

ERA Chas · #6 (**permalink**) 11-07-2010, 02:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kgs365

i dont think its going to be that bad becuase as patrick pointed out all the external parts will bolt up...its a matter of finding an old block (in Mass we have strict laws) and having it machined to be square, no cracks..etc then built..it wont be as bad as starting all over or buying a KB prepared motor..compared to the price of the ERA the motor is relatively minor..ha ha

Barry can build your 390 to a 445 with easily 100 more HP than you have for very likely under $10K using some of your parts. A Sideoiler would be near double that. I would include a link to his site but there are several broken links there. Including the 390 build.
Barry-what's up ?