[69chevelleinoc]

I’m a new owner of a 69 Chevelle ss396 4 Speed. I believe it to be the 325HP. I want to bump up the HP with Cam, Exhaust, Carb and ??. Would appreciate any advice to minimize redos. I have the orange intake and snorkel carb cover. When I test drove it, was not impressed with the power, but thought I can build it up.

 

[pbcbob]

start with exhaust, the Patriot H8024 header looks good, the Hooker website acts like 69 big block headers are different from 1970?

 

[69chevelleinoc]

start with exhaust, the Patriot H8024 header looks good, the Hooker website acts like 69 big block headers are different from 1970?

I’m a new owner of a 69 Chevelle ss396 4 Speed. I believe it to be the 325HP. I want to bump up the HP with Cam, Exhaust, Carb and ??. Would appreciate any advice to minimize redos. I have the orange intake and snorkel carb cover. When I test drove it, was not impressed with the power, but thought I can build it up.

Thanks. I will start there. Do you know what makes the 3 different HP (325,350 &375) in the 1969 SS396?? Is it different cam, exhaust and carb?

 

[von]

Basic performance difference in 325 and 350 hp engines is cam, valve springs, and air cleaner. 375 hp is a whole different animal. More compression ratio, bigger solid lifter cam, large port heads, high rise alum intake, Holley 780 cfm carb. Also HD parts such as forged pistons, 4 bolt mains, forged crank, HD rods, etc.

 

[pbcbob]

the 325hp engine camshaft was a real grocery getter, probably best suited for the station wagon, don't know if the 350hp shared the same compression but it did have a more aggressive cam

 

[GuysMonteSS]

Your first step should be to determine if the bottom end is up to the task of handling more power.
If it is still original,new bearings and rings are likely needed,and some machine work might be needed too.
If any new parts are needed,or wanted,LOL,I would recommend getting in touch with one of our noted engine builders like Mike "Wolfplace" Lewis;

LEWIS RACING ENGINES HOME

Mike knows his way around the Big Block Chevy,and he has helped out many of us here at Team Chevelle,including myself.
He could supply you with some "Go Fast" parts and recommend pistons,rings,bearings, a cam,lifters,valve springs,etc., or new heads.It depends on your budget and what kind of condition your existing parts are in.
Guy

 

[nitrofox]

Start with the basics, timing curve, make sure carb is getting full throttle, figure out what gears are in the rear. If engine is in good condition and doesn't burn oil, knock, leak fluids etc. then go with headers. After that change the cam. Carb is probably a Q-jet, which is fine. It's way to easy to pi$$ away money on these things. Take your time and get to know your car and engine and how to work on it. Don't be afraid to ask questions on here.