440 stroker build, have some questions

[MoparMike1974]

I will be building my first big block for an upcoming project and need some advice on piston selection. Im starting with a brand new callies RB block, so standard bore. My delima is 440source does not carry std pistons, only .030+. I really hate to bore meat out of the block if I don't have to and certainly don't need a few extra cubes in my application. It will be stroked around 500", have not decided yet.
So I guess im asking for opinions if I should just go with the off the shelf .030 pistons or pony up for custom pistons to keep the block standard. Wall thickness should be a non issue with this block. What do you think?

 

[Lefty71]

Im sure you can get really good standard pistons from Wiseco, Ross or Diamond.

 

[Jet]

Custom pistons can give you some great options as far as a long rod short skirt combo, thin ring pack and small pins. I also wouldn't hesitate to go .030 over. A good machine shop bore will make certain the bores are center lined with the crank. I'm sure the Callies block is a nice piece out of the box though.

 

[beanhead]

I will be building my first big block for an upcoming project and need some advice on piston selection. Im starting with a brand new callies RB block, so standard bore. My delima is 440source does not carry std pistons, only .030+. I really hate to bore meat out of the block if I don't have to and certainly don't need a few extra cubes in my application. It will be stroked around 500", have not decided yet.
So I guess im asking for opinions if I should just go with the off the shelf .030 pistons or pony up for custom pistons to keep the block standard. Wall thickness should be a non issue with this block. What do you think?

I think if it was me and I was building something that required an aftermarket block, it wouldn't even be a question....I'd be getting the piston that was EXACTLY what I wanted...even if it meant a custom set. And like Lefty said, try looking somewhere besides 440source first.

 

[33IMP]

Icon?!

 

[oldkimmer]

So u buy a real good block and want to fill it with lowest grade stroker parts? WTF. Kim

 

[Bewy]

First, make sure the block is finished honed. Some blocks are 'semi' finished & need further machine work before pistons can be fitted.

 

[Carnut68]

440 source pistons are Icon.

 

[IQ52]

Callies blocks are advertised to come in two different RB bore sizes............

4.500" finished bore

4.310" semi-finished bore

4.320 piston shouldn't be a problem as Icon makes (or will make) a standard and other bore sizes as will or do several manufactures.

 

[80fbody]

Don’t buy a “kit” in your case. Get a good Molnar crank and build from there. Kits are great, as is, for a street cars all day long but have some limitations including piston size availability. They also come with a “street” bearing, not really the best for racing.

Other issue is the “balance”. It’s an average balance job which is plenty for a cruiser but not if you’re gonna wind it up. My crank was off 11 grams in the rear and 4 in the front. Way to much for a good, race motor. And we had to weld the crank up as they took too much out.

I’ve got a 2nd block that’s going to get hard-blocked, studded and prepped for a Molnar stroker crank. Then we’ll build up from there for a spare motor.

I do like 440 Source and will continue to use their products that work for me. I’m still a fan. Just know their limitations and plan accordingly.

 

[MoparMike1974]

This block needs to be honed, its just rough bored as delivered.
This is going in a 71 cuda that will be street driven only. Not looking to build a race motor. I have trick flow heads for it but the limiting factor on this engine will be the six pack intake and FItech throttle bodys.