1970 340 has the 1973 low compression pistons

wolfhammer said

Jeeze guys, I didn't want to start an argument or pissing contest. I was just looking for experienced advise because I'm an old guy but new to Mopar small blocks.
When I got my Barracuda the P-O installed a Torker 340, headers, some kind of RV cam and a junk single point chinesium distributor on a stock 318 with a beat 904 and the original 7 1/4 no gear one tire fryer, ran like ****. I put the 8 3/4 3.55 in, a 2 plane intake rejetted eddy 600 and it woke right up.
I'm on a budget and just want to try to get as much as I can out of the 340 without disappointment, I don't have the funds to take it apart and re do it if it's not a stout runner.
I will respect any input and appreciate any input but please don't argue over others trying to help.
Thank you.

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It's no problem. All "THAT" aside, I can tell you this for sho and for certain......

REGARDLESS of opinions, if you blueprint this engine to a measured ratio of somewhere north of 10:1 with iron heads and that small cam, you will very possibly end up with some detonation issues.

That's why I recommended the lower compression pistons.....well that and because you already have them. To me, on a street car, the almost two points of compression are not worth the possible detonation issues. .......PLUS with the lower compression pistons, 9.5:1 is within your grasp with some mild head milling. That saves dough from new pistons and keeps compression more friendly.

But hay, you seem intent on pushing the envelope, so push away! I wish you luck. You can do it. A lot of people do. Hell, I did it with my slant 6......but I won't do it again. LOL