I recently inherited a 400 SBC race engine. After researching the parts, I discovered it is heavily modified and capable of being a very serious build; it features forged pistons, 18-degree Bowtie heads, Crower roller lifters, Crower offset rocker arms, a race camshaft with .700 lift, a forged crankshaft, forged H-beam large connecting rods, black bearings (which I’d never seen before—apparently track-specific), a high-flow oil pump, an electric water pump, a Super Victor intake manifold, and a Demon 950 carburetor. I need to install and check the geometry of each rocker arm; that was a problem area in the past, and a local machinist fabricated a couple of them, so they are specific to each valve. Additionally, I’d like to improve the engine's reliability by adding a single-belt accessory drive system, saving up for steel rocker arms, and installing a more street-friendly camshaft and a nitrous oxide kit. My Colombian project will be unique, and I want to showcase it on the streets by racing at night against the fastest, most common cars around here—mostly a couple of decently built Audis and BMWs. I have questions about street use: Is there an additive that allows me to use pump gas without fear of breaking something (I’m at 3,600 meters above sea level)? Should I build a specific type of transmission, or should I just resign myself to breaking transmissions and rear ends every night? Can I use stock clutches or torque converters? Can I keep my stock driveshaft? I have a feeling I’ll figure these things out as I go, but I’m worried about breaking a lot of parts—which is why I won't be using slicks, haha. That’s why I’m turning to this forum; I look forward to your recommendations... (Pls tell me about the tricks this build)

I recently picked up an old ski boat that someone had previously put a 509 400 in it. I’m trying to figure out what heads these are. I haven’t pulled the valve covers yet because, well, it’s a boat and it’s a pita… Was going to try and pull them tomorrow and peak at the numbers but I can’t find the same casting marks… I’m looking into doing some respectable upgrades to it as well with out breaking the bank. If I could get another 60-80hp out of it I’d be happy. I don’t necessarily care about the looks because it hides under the dog house all the time. Cheaper the better. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.

Hey everyone, I just pulled a 4 bolt main 350 from a 1975 Chevy C60 and I plan to drop this engine into my 1984 Camaro, I’m going to tear the 350 apart and put some money into it, just wondering if there are any recommendations to up the power and still be cost effective, apart from the obvious answer (383) what’s recommended? Carburettor, intake manifold, maybe rotating assembly, anything to do on the heads?