67@home

Here's where I'm at. I've had the car one month after wanting one since I was 5 years old.
It has a sbc 400 with a Holley four barrel. TH400 trans. I don't know the history of the car or the motor other than it runs pretty strong but I wanted to go through it because I don't know any history and I'd like to know what's inside e.g. bore, crank, cam, etc. This car will be a weekend driver car that I'd like to drive on the interstate no more than 100 miles at a time, eventually I'll throw an R4 in, much later.
I'm looking for some thoughts on what steps to take to go through the motor and what parts that I should replace such as the bearings, rings, and valves on the heads-the heads are cast iron by the way-any suggestions there too? Price ranges for machine work will be helpful, but not trying to do it on the cheap just want to know what to expect. Please offer any opinions on what to replace on the motor and whether not to go with a larger carb.
The rear end is a Ford 9". Unknown gearing at this time.
Thanks for the assistance.

Steve69SS396

Welcome to the site and good choice on your Camaro.

First thing is to figure out exactly what you have. Use this website to identify what you have: Chevy Small Block V8 Casting Numbers - Mortec

The block casting number is on the back near the transmission. The numbers for the heads are under the valve covers.

Mr99SS

Don't forget a good set of rings ! Im not a 400 specialist but when you take the heads off make sure the steam holes aren't cracked ... good look


steve you got the block I like the DART ! Guy around here has a very big small block and he kills the smaller big blocks with it!

Steve69SS396

If you're going to build a big smallblock, the tall deck Iron Eagle is the way to go.