Best Engine to start a Build With???

[heathgu]

G'day guys,

I have a few questions for you guys.

I am going to build a forced induction (supercharged) motor for offroad racing. The vehicle weights 6500lbs. I want to make at least 500-600hp at the wheels on 37" tyres and want to spin the thing to 7000rpm all day every day. Not sure on capacity just yet but i think 6 litre is the max in class that i can run.

So what motor do i start with, LS1, LS2, LS6 etc Or should i purchase a block and start that way.

Cheers Heath

[Steve Crowe]

I believe the class you're looking at allows a destroked Chevy 400 SB which brings it down to 377 or a bit less than 6.2L.

It's an extremely tough engine and easy to build, lots of articles around about making it into a 377 or a 406.

650 HP is very easily attainable - WITHOUT a supercharger.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrol...ock_engine#400

I accidentally found one a few months ago when looking for an extra van. 1978 Chevy Beauville 1 ton (G3) van with only 46,000 original miles for $700. New starter, alternator and battery, all I had to do was put in a $14 carb kit and $40 worth of power steering hoses.

I've had some rather substantial offers for the engine alone but it's still too good of a van to retire.

Places to look? Salvage yards know what this engine is worth so forget that. Your best bet is to look around local small Churches as these were very popular as a Church bus.