big block or small block

cojohnso said

I would also consider a low deck B-block option. It does help on some room vs RB big bl8ck. And to get a 383 to 350+ horse is comparatively cheap. A relatively cheap stroker option to 431 with an RB crank that can still be found in some outstate bone yards. 450 HP easy. I believe you can do a 383/431 stroker for $2k. Pump gas street torque beast.

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Well, we’ll see what Bill decides. A 383/400 that doesn’t need a rebuild is a rare thing. A stroker kit from 440 Source @ 2K to start is nice. However, going past the 3.75 stroke crank for more cubes than the 431/451 and the heads choke it as they choke the stock CID as is.
What would be the point on his budget?

He could have more than enough power just doing what I would call a copycat build of the old days 383 engine (330 hp stock) and make the next 20 hp via headers or a just a cam and leave the stock exhaust manifolds.

If his 383 only needs basic machine work and slugs, that should be a good bit less than 2K complete.