I've bought a 72 El Camino SS with a 402 BB. Help with some of NO,s would be appreciated. The intake is an aluminum Gm #3919849 low rise.Some guys have said its a sq.port manifold.???? help
The carb is a spreadbore Holley #8546 with 1760 stamped under it????what size???
The heads are cast #6272292 (low comp.? small valve?)
It is a number matching motor so I'd like to know as much about it as I can.I'd like to beef it up some any suggestions???? Thanks Rick


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Here is some info from 2 sources:
6272292 402 & 454 1971 open chamber
6272292 70-78 oval OPEN 402, 454

3919849 1968 427 390 L-36, oval port, Qjet

8546 Holley 650
see http://www.holley.com/HiOctn/ProdLine/CarbList.pdf

Mark

The intake is the only thing I could help with. Like COPO says, it is ONLY a 68 low hp 427 Corvette item. This in NOT what I would call a desireable intake, but it is moderately rare. I personally prefer it for a BB with oval port (square port) heads and a Q-jet application, rather than a cast iron. You can build a very strong street 402 with this combo (although I am a die hard believer in Q-jets for the street), so I would keep what you have as a place to start. If, at a latter date, you decided to go 454, you already have a good set of heads and intake to put on it. If you pull the heads off, spend the money and install Stainless (Manley) 2.19/1.88 valves (or even 2.25 intakes). Have the manifold/heads port matched and the bowls blended (probably about $400 worth). A set of 9.8-10.4:1 pistons (hypereutectic Federal Mogul would be good, but you can go forged if you feel the need), .540 to .590 lift cam, presto, killer 402 (need some headers).

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Tom Parsons

Thanks alot Mark and Tom.I really appreciate the help.
Tom,I've taken your advice before concerning headers.I used Dynomax ceramics on my 66 sb and love em.Will plan to use them on my 72 when time permmits.(Or money I should say).
If I wanted to beef up the 402 you think the original heads with a little work,higher lift cam,maybe an Edelbrock rpm manifold,and Dynomax headers would get me a little more power?
I was concerned about the heads if it would be worth spending much money.
The lower end seems to be in good shape as it doesn't leak or burn oil
I guess my real beef is that my SB 66 with a 350/330hp has a LOT more git up an go and tons of better throttle response.
Sorry I guess I'm ramblin,THANKS for all the help.
Rick

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