Road Runner Nest

Nest,
I have a spare 340c.i. sitting in my garage that Iam currently rebuilding. I plan on replacing it with my engine in my 72' over the summer. I want to make it a sleeper small block; So I'm planning on boring the engine 0.030" over. Replacing the stock cast crank with a 4.00" Forged crank. And adding forged pistons as I go through the rebuild. The 340 cubic inch displacement will increase to 416 cubic inches. Estimating 500hp, give or take.

Just want to know anyones opinons, suggestions, thoughts, ect on the rebuild.

500 hp is doable, you'll have to invest in good heads. Just bolting stock heads on a cammed-up 416 shortblock won't get you there. It won't be a sleeper either.

Forged crank is overkill. Go with a scat cast crank and spend the money saved on the top end where the horsepower is made.

I've got a 410 stroker project underway. It will run stock J-heads (for now). Figuring somewhere in the neighborhood of 400 hp. Low end torque will be the big benefit.

Right now I dont have the money for any upgraded heads. If I use my stock heads what hp do you think I'd be putting out? i.e. how much of a loss would it take of.

All this talk about horsepower reminds me of what my brother always says:

HORSEPOWER will impress your friends but TORQUE will win you races........

I agree.

Why are you shooting for 500 horsepower?

If your budget doesn't allow for good heads, what does it allow?

Im not aiming for 500hp. I just simply want to know how could stock bored heads effect the car's performance.

I think you might be shocked at how a stock 340 performs especially off the line with the right rearend and carb set up properly.

The key is to have the car dialed in so when it is time to go it goes.

Good point All I'm looking for is something that can do some "damage" if it ever needs to