You are not far off, Rich. If anything, add another 5 grand just to allow some slush. A $15,000 crate bigblock sure looks good after adding up these bling SBC topends.

I heard Brady's 540ci BB at the Thunder Shootout. Maybe it is that bond us teal colored brethren have, but his car sounded awesome.

Ryan

 

Why not just convert a set of 18 degree heads for reverse cool ....much cheaper than dealing with an old jello 400 block..Plus MUCH cheaper!

Dennis

 

I'm building a 510 BBc with Dart heads ($2500) and my budget is right now at about 10k. I still need to buy a hood, figure out the fuel system (might not be too bad). I did use all forger parts, SRP pistons etc, so I chose pretty good parts I think. It could probably live with less.

Also, this total includes a race built Powerglide capable of taking 1400HP. So, I guess that has some value too.

Consider,too that with either build a new rear is problably a necessity. My budget did not include a new rear but once the engine is in the car I know that thing is living on borrowed time. My first WOT pass will problably destroy it.

Another advantage I had was that my LT1 motor was fine and by selling the various CPU and other engine components that I was no longer using I recouped about 1500 so far which can lower your total number.

I can understand the nickel and diming though....you'll have fuel system, hood, mounts, headers, and on and on....

Good luck on your decision.