Hey guys, I'm new to the whole building engines game. I have a 96 firebird 5.7 lt1. the only mods it currently has is a CAI, and bored .030. I'm looking to build it up to where it will handle around 600 rwhp, with a supercharger. Just looking for a starting point, my budget isn't that tight, I'm just going to buy the parts as I can and eventually put it all together. Any thoughts on a good starting point?

 

If you haven't already, read this thread, especially post #13:

https://www.camaroz28.com/forums/for...lt-1-a-566122/

That's a great place to start. Then, members here are pretty good about helping you out with specific questions.

 

Some of the information in that post is a bit dated and some is confusing. At 600 whp the rotating assembly is going to become more of an issue. The rods will start to become a weak link and you're also going to be putting a rather large strain on the stock crank hub. Keep in mind that with a supercharger you're going to need to make another 75 or more hp at the flywheel to compensate for the drag created by the head unit. 600 whp is probably around 750 on a motor without a supercharger.

 

Buy strong stuff.

 

Callies crank, billet rods I have Howards, I did 4 bolt billet mains, forged pistons, JE, Diamond, Wisco... take your pick but hear Wisco makes some good FI pistons for a good price. And about a grand in engine block work, I did fire wire groves on my block and copper head gaskets, better be tuned good cause they don't blow out!


I spent 2600 on my rotating assembly and that was balanced and main caps.