Here's my thoughts...
I'll run my W-2 headed 388 small block next year at my local track. I should see somewhere north of 600 hp with it...looking for 650. It DID have 575 when first built but cam technology has come a long way since 1994.
Meantime I'll be building a 'cheap' 5.7 just to see how well it does compared to my small block and all those Chebbies. The 'spec' GM motors are about 650 hp give or take. I think I can make a reliable 500hp, or a bit more, with a 5.7 and mostly stock components. If one blows I'll find the weak points.
I know the rods and cranks are supposed to be the weak links... I guess I'll find out.
My 388 engine originally cost $15,000 carb to pan...dyno'd and ready to run. If I can squeeze 600 HP out of a 'hot' 5.7 I can do it way cheaper than that. I'll likely have $4K in my small block race ready after rebuilding, and repairing, the previous damage.
The GM crate motor (604 is 400 HP) is legal where I run but not competitive on the 1/2 mile... but there are a few guys that are top five with that engine on the smaller tracks.
Time will tell.
The last 5.7 I got will get a backyard rebuild... rings, bearing, fresh valve job, cam and valve gear plus a new carb intake and, likely a 750 carb on alky. I'll try to get the squeeze up to 12-1 to favor the methanol fuel. Should be race ready for under $2K.
That's more in line with my budget... if it blows I'll have another one to build right behind it.
