|
6/9/03
I am building a 1970 Pro Street Z-28 Camaro that will see some drag strip time. I built
engines in the 1970's, but have been out of the loop for many years now. I am looking for
tech articles, or better yet, maybe a book or manual for step by step instructions for
building a big block Chevy, with all the new knowledge covered over the past 30 years I
have missed.
I am looking to build a 540 or 572, in that
range. I have a new 10-71 stage 3 blower (no
intake manifold or drive yet); a birdcatcher
injection system with an EFI conversion (not
mapped yet) and a modular aluminum housing 9-inch
rear end with 40-spline axles and 33x22.5x15
Hoosier Quick Time tires (no gear picked out
yet).
I know I need low compression pistons, blower
crank and harmonic balancer with extra keyway,
high flow heads & exhaust, and stainless valves.
The correct cam is very
ADVERTISEMENT
 |
|
important.
I also have a crank trigger and am planning
to run an ignition management system. I plan
to run a vacuum pump.
Is there anything I can do to prevent detonation? I've read that gapless rings are the way
to go. I've also read that file fit rings are the way to go. Aluminum or iron heads?
I am looking for tolerances, specifications, what to watch out for, common mistakes to
avoid, pictures -- anything to make this engine as bulletproof as possible. I am looking
for 1,000-1,200 horsepower. I would also like to know how to add nitrous to this et-up
without melting it down. I see a lot of electronic monitoring equipment on the market that
is supposed to make nitrous safer.
Any help you could give me would be greatly appreciated. I would like to build as much
of this engine myself as possible. I have a local professional engine shop to help with
machining, dyno, etc. It's a hobby. I just want to say, yup, I built that rocket.
Thanks.
Gary
Gary,
It appears that you have spent some time
researching your project. You have mentioned
many different options for this project and
my best advice is to keep it simple! I may be
a little "old school," but simple gives the
best results.
A 540-572 c.i. engine with a 10-71 blower
will make all the power you need. If your heart
is set on EFI, make sure that you have the Fel-Pro
computer program; it is user friendly. If not,
a pair of Dominator carbs will work just fine.
As far as compression ration, I recommend
7.5:1 to 8:1. I use a garmonic balancer on my
engines and double keyway is a must.
The camshaft is the most critical component
for your project and I have a couple of very
good grinds that you could use.
< MORE STORIES >
|
