Max torque, small CID?

[Wild Turkey]

I'm wanting to build a SBC for max low-end torque for trailer towing. (Grew up driving John Deere's and a 292).

So how would it work to put a 400 crank in a 305 or 307? Would one work better than other?

Since I'm only looking for low rpm would the heads be a limiting factor?

The other option is a 366 TD BB

Thanks for any help.

[gschuld]

If it's low end torque your after, why not just put a 400 crank in a 400 block. As far as I'm concerned, in general and especially for a low end torque motor it would be most convenient and economical to start with as many cubes as possible. Good 400 blocks/engines are not that hard to find, and if you are not planning to spin a grunt motor past 5500 rpm or so, the complete stock internals(short rods and all) minus a good set of pistons would hold up just fine. Lots of low end fun! I run a 406 and love it. Big block grunt, small block weight!

Just a thought

[76GMC1500]

Torque is more a function of displacement than stroke, this is a major misunderstanding. The bigger engine will always make more torque.

[chevydrivin]

What are you towing and what is the vehicle? A small cube engine with a lot of torque might tow well but get crapie fuel mileage.

[southerner]

forget about the smal bore small block chevies, stick with the 4.00 inch bore or bigger 4.128. Or as you said you could go for a 366 tall deck truck block, BUT...... they are heavy and good for keeping your front wheels on the ground.

[pat mccarthy]

i see you say a 366 but you can find a 427 tall deck ?you can get it out to 525 easy with some work but it may not fit in to what you have easy or a 454 /496 with low buck parts