I just bought a Firebird and found that it has a knock in the engine. I believe it is a bearing but there is also a strange noise coming from beneath the valve cover.....not too happy about that. But being the optimist that i am i have decided it is a wonderful opportunity to build a stroker motor. So, would it be better to build a 383 or a 396? And is it entirely crazy to attempt the assembly myself (Under close professional guidance, of course) or should i by no means touch the motor and let a proffesional handle the entire task? This is all idle thinking because i am short on money at the moment but any advice would be appreciated, thank you.

 

I think a 383 will be cheaper. If the professional is really a pro then sure you could do it. Keep in mind that several people on here lately have had problems with new engines built by "professionals" anyone can make a mistake and it would be in your best interest to read all these threads so you don't make the same ones. What ever you do check your machine work, research everything you can, ask lots of questions and don't rush.

A good engine isn't cheap and a stroker build up isn't fast.

Good luck

 

Like the above it isn't anything you can do quick. Make sure you have lots of time and check everything. Making sure you have all the proper clearances is a must. I like the 383 myself so I'm recommending that.
You'll learn a lot building it for yourself but you'll also find out its a lot of work cleaning and grinding for a stroker motor. But hey we do it cuz we love it right?

 

Don't worry, I'm the physical embodiment of patience. And i do love that car so i would certainly love to know how to turn her into a cobra stompin' street beast! But as for the professional I'm trying to get hold of a guy a friend recommended to me, a guy who has done laps at Daytona back in the old days. I guess i'll see how it goes. Thanks guys.

 

My advice would be to go with a 383 also. It is arguably a little better stroker than the 396 when you are on a budget. The 396 needs more machining than the 383 does.
Ylou can get Eagle parts for rather cheap.
Good luck, and I would strongly suggest doing a search on the message board for "stroker, 383, 396". This should bring you tonsn of things to read up on.

 

Didn't we Just do This?

http://web.camaross.com/forums/showthread.php?t=326251

 

I saw the 383/396 thread after i posted this one, sorry, don't mean to be redundant. Are those Eagle kits any good? I tend to stay away from the extreme bargains but if they make a kit that's atleast as good as most then i'll certainly look into it. I dont plan on making a monsterously high HP engine (not yet anyway) so if the parts can handle everything below 500 it will be fine. So anyway, good advice, thanks guys!

 

My engine guy, jordon Musser who is widely known on this message board, reassured me that the Eagle forged 4340 parts will handle my setup without any problem. I am going to be running a solid roller (.650 in/.620 ex) LT4 headed 383 with a 200 shot on it. he stated that the Eagle parts will handle up to 800 horsepower. I definately trust him, so I would say that they will definately work great for a 500 horsepower motor.

 

Thanks! Thats what i wanted to hear. There's some good looking new eagle kits on Ebay. If anyone wants to get rid of a 383 stroker kit just let me know.

 

Yup, that's what my engine builder told me too. That's why I went with the Eagle set-up.

One of his customers is putting out 720 to the wheels (6 speed) with a blown 396 (Same Eagle Rotating assembly as mine) Drives it every day and has never had any problems with the motor yet, and he really beats the crap out of that thing.


I reccomend you go with Eagle as well. Good Luck

My Eagle Forged 396 Rotating Assembly

 

Boy that is a very pretty oil pan you got there. Is the "T" pan the new pan they just reworked for us LT1 guys?
If you don't mind me asking, about how much did that and the pick up set you back.
Thanks and good luck with that "baby" 396 you are getting together there.

 

I couldn't decide either, so I compromised....I've got a 393 ci stroker. Actually I've got a very inventive mechanic that knows his stuff.

 

Part no. is 15-246T. This is the latest design and doesn't have any of the leaking problems of the older 242's. (I hope )

I paid a total of $430 CAD ($350 USD)

$379 for the pan and oil pick-up and $56 for "pick-up charges" or something like that (don't ask my why. I don't know what that is either)

The rest was taxes.

Remember, that was $430 Canadian. USA will be $350.

Not too shabby for such a top notch piece

 

I've got a 3 cubic inch advantage over you buddy. If you and I ever line up....you won't stand a chanch

 

Does Eagle have a factory website or do they sell by retail only?