Quote Originally Posted by maineevent
about to pick up 400 short block this weekend been looking at post to see what path for build up learned some interesting stuff why do people suggest dished pistons on 400's instead of flat tops like on 350's looking to do a mild street build on an extremely tight budget but I have all winter 400 is a 4 bolt main 1st time building an i need some insight 350-400 hp all im looking for going in a 78 chevy malibu also can buy 400 heads from neighbor for 50 bucks
Because of the size of the engine a cam's power band will start earlier in a 400 vs. a 350.
The largest cam you can really run in a 400 with out going to a looser stall is around 225 at .050.
To get the 350- 400 hp you will need a about the 225 at .050 size on the intake side.I would try and run a 6 degree spred or more favoring the exhaust side.,a 9 to 1 comp. ratio,good rpm performer style intake,a 670 cfm Holley should do the trick.
After 225 at .050 I would start to look at a looser stall.
The hyper. pistons will work fine for what you are trying to do.
The 400 heads will work but I would do a good valve job,bowl blend,gasket match.
At the very least I would try and install a 1.6 exhaust valve.
The 400 does not like as much timing as the 350.I would start around 34 total and try it.
Also loose the stock 5.565 rods and try and put a set of 5.7 rods in it.