Help!!

I applaud you folks for all the work you're doing on your pre-67 A bodies, but do you think it's really worth the pain of putting a 383 in a 66 or older Dart\Valiant? Now, I've never driven one of these with a big block, so I really have nothing to compare big or small block performance. However, my 66 Vart has a warmed over 360 that's probably putting out about 375 - 390 flywheel HP and that sucker will flatten your eyeballs when you punch the go pedal. :thumblef: The biggest thing with any of these old A bodies, or any car for that matter, is getting the power to the ground without going up in smoke - although I do love to put on a good smoke show occassionally! The 360 just slipped into my 66 as slick as you please (original 273), without the hassles of moving the steering mechanism, and even the 727 went in with absolutely no modifications to the tranny tunnel or anywhere else. I'm still using the original 273 manifolds, which I know is a major constriction to the engine's power output, but finding any exhaust setup for these old cars is a real headache, and VERY expensive. :wack: So, I guess what I'm trying to say here is that for the problems associated with putting a 383 in that small engine bay, wouldn't you be just as well off with a well built 360 and some well chosen speed parts. As for the 402 stroker, I don't think you'll make a LOT more power than a well planned 360 combo, you'll just have the power band further down in the RPM range, and the 360 isn't all that bad for low end torque to begin with.

Now, please don't think I'm putting down anyone's car or their desire to put whatever engine they choose in there, because that's not my intention. :) My 66 will definitely keep a small block in it as long as I own it, since I'm very happy with the performance and handling as it is now. On the other hand, I have a 67 Dart GT 2dr HT that is also an original V8 car, and that one has been slated to get a big block ever since I bought it about 20 years ago. I already have the 400 block and 727 tranny, and when the 66 is finished I'll be joining you in the big block world, but I don't think I'd want the headaches of doing that with a pre-67. Keep on enjoying your A bodies everyone. :headbang: