Stroking a 351w

[coosawjack]

Originally Posted by bmcnicho

I have a 1974 351w block that I am planning on stroking for my Classic Roadsters Cobra. The cylinders will clean up to 4.030". I hope to get 500-530hp from the engine. I am planning on buying a Probe Pro-Street 427 rotating assembly from CHP (forged crank & rods), and Vic Jr cylinder heads. I am also thinking of using a Comp-Cams Magnum 284HR or 290HR retrofit hydraulic roller cams.

I have a few questions.

1) Is this trying to get too much displacement from a factor 351w block? 427 cu-in is good for bragging rights, but the rod ratio is below 1.5 with these rotating assemblies. Am I sacrificing the engines ability to rev to 6k or higher? I am wondering if I should back off to a 408 or 418 stroker kit.408 will get you what you want without stressing the block too much.....I did a 408 instead of bigger and am very happy!!

2) I am debating buying Milodon 4 bolt main caps to replace the original 2 bolt mains. I am not sure if this is necessary or if the smaller angled bolts are really that effective since the factory blocks don't have as much web material a the aftermarket Dart blocks. Am I is just as well off buying replacement 2 piece mains with high strength APR bolts and a main cap girdle? I cannot speak on this subject but I suspect at 6000 RPM's you really don't need 4 bolts.....strokers develop a bunch of low end torque!!

3) I am planning on using Edelbrok Vic Jr heads & a Torker 2 intake. I think the extra height of the Vic Jr intake will cause clearance problems with my hood. I had to use the Edelbrock "Performer" to keep everything below the hood scoop....I have about .5" of clearance above the air cleaner bolt....RPM is too tall!!

I think I have matched the components well, but I appreciate advice from those of you who have been there before. My block is a 1974 as well and leaked like crazy from the rear main (2 piece neoprene seal)....after many seal changes I got smart and installed a sleeve on the rear main journal....LEAK GONE NOW FOR 8 YEARS!! I highly recommend you either do the sleeve or have the block machined for a one piece seal!!

Thanks

Good Luck!!

Coosawjack