Hello, I posted about this in the engine section, but didn't get much information. So I thought I would try here. I have been a machine shop in town working on a 73 454 block for me. It is getting a .030 overbore and a 4.250 crank for a 489 CU BBC. Pistons are flat tops, don't know compression ration forgot to ask, but it is intended to be a pump gas friendly motor. The heads are 72 049 Heads which are getting larger valves, a bowl blend, and some mild porting. They are also receiving 1.7 ratio roller rockers.

The cam that was selected or comes with the kit the shop is using, has the following specs.

234/244 0553/.578 112LSA

I have a Performer RPM intake that came with motor that will be reused.

Now A few questions.

My 69 Chevelle is a power brake car, will this came still provide enough vacuum? Can I go bigger or is there a better recommendation? I have read plenty of good things about the VooDoo 268.

What size carb should I go with? I was thinking something in the 850 CFM range.

The guy at the machine shop said he has built several motors using the stock bb connecting rods without any problems.

The motor will be for street use, with an occasional loud outburst.

What kind of HP could I be looking at making.

If you need some more infor let me know.

Thank You,

Big D

What transmission auto or manual?

Remember most of your driving on the street is at part throttle. I think the voodoo cam and a 750 cfm carb would make you real happy.

I'll let the experts give you HP numbers, but just for my guess I'd say 450+ HP with lots of torque. Your compression will be pretty low with the flat tops and a little work done to the heads, but it will be great for the street and pump gas. Probably run on regular, way to stay smart for a street car (as in not getting wild with the parts).:thumbsup:

What transmission auto or manual?

Remember most of your driving on the street is at part throttle. I think the voodoo cam and a 750 cfm carb would make you real happy.

I'll let the experts give you HP numbers, but just for my guess I'd say 450+ HP with lots of torque. Your compression will be pretty low with the flat tops and a little work done to the heads, but it will be great for the street and pump gas. Probably run on regular, way to stay smart for a street car (as in not getting wild with the parts).:thumbsup:

Thanks For the Reply.
For a trans I am leaning toward a 700R4, if the torque gets out of hand then maybe the 48LE. Would like to see an adapter for the 68LE, six speed auto.

Should I get different pistons? I do a lot of highway driving, and usually have a heavy foot. Won't see the track anytime soon. I want a conservative engine, but one with a lot of Seat of the Pants feel. Of course I am doing a budget build and so far my BBC budget build is running less than any of the Hot rod mags budget build. I have a Masters In Computer Science, but grew up at the track. I just don't know a lot about what to put into my motor.
I would like to see 500+ though.

Any Suggestions would be appeaciated.

If you want 500+, then you should put some different pistons in there. Get the compression in the 9:1 to 9.5:1 range and 500+ should be no problem. Pump gas will still work fine also.

using stock rods with a 4.25 stroke crank?? go with a 6.385 rod which is correct rod for that crank and then get matching pistons. you should see 525 h.p