Thread: chevy small block 400

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It's a bit low on compression for that cam, you can change to a 350 style head with good flow, drill the steam holes (in the head) to match the block steam holes. This will raise the compression up to a better level for that cam. Have the crank magnafluxed for cracking and stressed radiuses. 400 cranks of that era had a few of them not take the grunt you are about to put to it. If it checks out okay, then have the assembly balanced. Degree the cam dead on, making sure that piston to valve clearance is within specs. Have the heads machined for the proper springs and make sure they don't portrude the valve guides too high to prevent an interference problem. Have some fun with it. That cam is going to require high stall converter and deep gears to run well. Good size carb to go with, such a 750, 830,or 850. And have some fun. P.S> I forgot to ask if you are running roller rockers, etc. If so (recommended) get the guide plates and pushrods to get the geometry right and great durability.