Big Block Engine Build Combination
The block is back from the machine shop and the parts are nearly in so it’s definitely about time to start rebuilding this monster big block 454. The big question – what will the combination be?
In the end there are lots of reasons the combination below was selected, but I admit that I relied pretty heavily on the judgement of the performance shop. Rather than spitting out a laundry list of explanations here, I’ll provide my reasons for choosing each component as it’s installed. But, since many of you are probably wondering what I finally decided on, I’ve provided my build combination below:
| Engine Components & Engine Build Combination | |||
| Pistons | SRP forged aluminum, 26cc domes | ||
| Connecting rods | Scat forged I-beam | ||
| Camshaft | Hydraulic roller | ||
| Duration @ 0.050″: 230˚ intake, 236˚ exhaust | |||
| Lobe separation: 112˚ | |||
| Gross lift w/ 1.7:1 rockers; 0.595″ intake, 0.581″ exhaust | |||
| Cylinder heads | Airflow research: 305cc rectangle port (as cast) | ||
| Combustion chamber: 119cc | |||
| Valves: 2.250″ intake, 1.880″ exhaust | |||
| Intake manifold | Edelbrok Performer RPM (Note: This requires a Corvette big block hood and drop base air filter) | ||
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 (approx.) | ||
| Carburetor | Barry Grant 850 CFM mechanical w/ annular boosters | ||
| Exhaust | Headers with 2 1/8″ primaries and dual exhaust | ||
One thing is for sure, it’s nice to have all the decisions and second guessing behind me and to get back to turning wrenches.
Interestingly, as part of the cam selection process the performance shop ran this engine combination through an engine simulation program. Although they know it’s not exact, they feel it will serve as a reasonable estimate of how much power to expect out of the engine when it’s complete. It’ll be real interesting to see how their simulation compares to the actual dyno runs I’ve got planned.
Stay tuned because the wrenches start turning again in the next update! If you have any questions just stop by the forum, I’m there pretty often!
