So I want to build a truck around a motor..........
To all of the others out there who think way too far into the "what ifs".......I am asking for opinions. I recently picked up a spare long block for my truck for $150 complete except for the intake. The engine currently in my truck is less than a year old and runs great........so I decided to start my first complete build. My idea is a late 60's early 70's chevy truck with a moderately modified small block and manual transmission.
The block and heads are 1992 with the center screw rocker covers. I would like to change over to either a 2X4 or 3X2 carb setup for the visual effect of cool. The manifolds I can find are fit up to 1986. What changed that the manifolds wont fit a 1992?
I am thinking of a cam around 230 duration @ 0.050" and gross lift around 0.480". This would require a bit of compression.........with piston deck and gasket totalling about 0.040". a bore of 4.030", 76cc heads: I figure pistons with 10cc domes should bring the SCR to about 10.75:1. I plan an running 93-97 octane unleaded. I don't really have the budget for a new 383 kit but I can make the stretch to a multi carb setup a little more justifiable.
My questions are many. Does this setup sound about right? Suggestions? What trannys are working well and what do I look for? Right now I don't have the truck to put this in but I would like to form a plan ahead of time so I can better complete the build from start to finish and stay on task.
Thanks ahead of time for input and opinions. I appreciate the little details that are earned through experience and wisdom.
Chris
the plan is..........to have a plan
[QUOTE= All the manufacturer's have plenty of information available along with this and other forums like it that with some proper planning and research you will be able to select the correct components WITHOUT messing it up on the street.......
Let's face it, most are just too dang impatient to get all the chassis and suspension work done before they here the engine run!!! The patience to do it is probably something the comes with age and experience, I guess....[/QUOTE]
Thanks for the input and helping to stress the importance of a vehicle as a total package. When I finally do find the right pickem up truck I want to have done my homework. I don't want to get stuck halfway due to lack of planning. Having this extra longblock just got my wheels a spinning as I am sure many can relate.
I would definitely use the block as I currently have it as a mock up. I would most likely strip the sheetmetal off down to just the cab and suspension. I figure that would give me room to fab up whatever I may need and to do all of the little things that are hard to do while everything else is in the way.
I am certainly open to pointers, such as the already mentioned rivets and firewall clearancing. Anyone run into problems they wish to share? Wish they had put a component in a different place? Lets toss around some ideas, concepts, dreams what have you.............
I found this on craigs list.http://indianapolis.craigslist.org/car/364529629.html
It is a 51 truck with 85 suspension. I inquired about the 85 conversion to see if it was a cut job and I am still waiting to hear...What do you guys think? Worth the money with a clear title?