My Blueprint crate engine story - May 2018

There has been much discussion over Blueprint crate engines here on FABO. Last summer I said that I would report back on my actual Blueprint experience once the engine was up and running, good or bad.

The engine is running, and the verdict is GOOD. REAL GOOD.

I now have about 300 miles on my Blueprint “Chrysler 408 Dressed Engine BPC4083CTC”, and couldn’t be happier with the Engine or the superior customer service of Blueprint.

100_6961.JPG

Engine arrived all securely packaged, with lots of helpful documentation and instructions to get it fired up and “unleash hell”. From what I have seen on the inside and outside of the engine, all indications are of a quality build with quality parts. The start up / break in process has been pretty straightforward, given that the Carb was properly set up, and everything was checked out during and after the Blueprint Dyno pulls.

100_6968.JPG

Considering that I haven’t really had my hands inside an engine in 35 years, the Blueprint route just made sense for me. A motor that puts out 458hp / 503tq (as per the included dyno sheet) that is backed with a 30 month 50,000 mile warranty is more than good enough for me. I read the warranty language carefully before pulling the trigger, and I do consider it to be worth more than the paper it’s printed on. I don’t really need to know all the science that went into this engine, (although I’ve learned quite a bit along the way) and I am more than confident that it will meet my needs.

100_7392.JPG

I bought this engine through Pace Performance when @Johnny Mac was working for them. He is a totally stand-up guy who has walked me through numerous issues (mostly of my own making) and shared much wisdom with me post-sale. The fact that he moved over to Blueprint recently tells me that quality attracts quality. My dealings with Blueprint indicate to me that they are the real deal. A quality outfit that sells quality products for a decent price. They even painted the block orange at my request, since I couldn’t embrace the idea of a black block going in my Duster.

100_7489.JPG

For my fellow Canadians, this engine made it to my driveway for pennies over $10,000 – and that’s with a brutal exchange rate. I found that even if I had found a local builder who gave a **** about building a SB Mopar, it wouldn’t have happened for anywhere near that amount. So much for spending locally!

20180506_142112.jpg

Midway through the 500 mile break in period, this engine pulls like hell even though I have so far avoided the dreaded “hard acceleration for prolonged periods” for the first 500 miles. When I get to the point of really mashing the gas pedal…..well, I’m thinking of keeping a few large Depends in the trunk for my passengers’ convenience.

I also haven’t had a speeding ticket in about 35 years either. Of course I’ll do my best, however……..

Add me to the list of happy Blueprint customers!

20180506_002607.jpg

20180507_185445.jpg
Blueprint taking their spot on the "trunk lid of fame"

Oh yeah, massive thanks to FABO, without whom (which?) NONE of this would have materialized. :thumbsup: