72 340 build vs...other options
So since the 318 guys never want to have a civil discussion
This is not 100% true but this thread is about you loosssing your cool and assuming as well as misreading and showing a lack of comprehension. Get over it.
about anything other than converting a 318 into a race engine
That was not the thread topic nor was it a actual route taken, however, it was a joke that was made.
I got to thinking, how does the 72-73 340 stack up say as compared to a 360. If I was an aspiring small block Mopar guy
360, readily available as a 5.9, cheap, 3.58 stroke is good for low speed power while high reving is EZ.
graduating from the depths of 318dom into something with a few more cubes, is it wise to pick up a 72 340 or opt for a 5.9/360 type build. I saw a Nicks Garage video where Nick ran a 72 340 with a Thermoquad and got 300-335 horse. Its interesting what these later 340s put out in actual numbers. Lets have a nice chat and... its a 340 thread :thumbsup:
The later 340’s lack compression. That’s it really.
P.S. Ill list what I like about the later 340.
1. the heads - its a 360 casting but can have 2.02s put in fairly easy
2. the block -no matter how you slice it its a 340 block you can do whatever with it that you could do with the earlier block Id think swapping pistons would be on my mind.
3. The crank - depending on build date you may have a forged crank good for high rpm.
I turned my cast crank 6800 for years. No issues. Not even with the cast pistons.
4. Pistons - even the later ones had valve releifs - can use high lift cam
5. That 72 Thermoquad setup right down to the trap door air cleaner- I don't know, it just worked...
Love that set up. Using it now.
What I dont like about later 340:
1. The heads - the J with the bigger combustion chambers, combined with the low comp pistons BUT that can be overcome with earlier style pistons.
2. The internal vs external balance forged vs cast crank by build date
3. it was getting to be the smog era.
4. the 8.5:1 compression ratio
My conclusion is I wouldn't sneeze at a later 340 yeah I know some are external balance but so is the 360 that's easy to over come and live with..
All things considered this engine is fairly easier to straight up mod into a strip screamer than a 318- just swap in parts from the 68-71 340
Let’s run through that parts list one by one and compare!
I saw a later 340 on here recently for 1500-1600 dollars to me that's a deal and a good starting point for a build. OR would you go 360?
$1,600 goes a lot further in a 360 than a 330 that needs a rebuild and purchased at $1,600. If I had both engines already on a stand, for me it would depend on what I’m doing with the engine as to which I’m building.
see how easy that is? yeah I know "340s aren't available" but I see them on here regularly. Ante up...you are paying for convenience and performance.
What say you?
Anti up $1,600 for an entrance fee on an engine that needs to be rebuilt?
