Recomendation for a 'crate' small-block with 325+ HP
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Different spin on the other thread - wondering who builds a good cost effective mild performance small block chevy based engine? I was thinking about building one but can't seem to get good concrete info on what will last so I'm thinking about looking for a long-block that I can just drop in and go and not have any problems with it - or if I do the builder will take care of it.
EDIT:
Anyone familiar with the "NEW GM base marine engines"??
http://www.affordablemarine.com/gm.htm - 5.7L / 350 LH 325 98-02 Vortec Roller $2,995
http://www.ebasicpower.com/engines/base/350.htm - $3399
Seems like these are pretty good deals for a "NEW" gm produced engine that should be reliable.
EDIT:
Anyone familiar with the "NEW GM base marine engines"??
http://www.affordablemarine.com/gm.htm - 5.7L / 350 LH 325 98-02 Vortec Roller $2,995
http://www.ebasicpower.com/engines/base/350.htm - $3399
Seems like these are pretty good deals for a "NEW" gm produced engine that should be reliable.
Last edited by bwiencek; 11-29-2007 at 02:57 PM. Reason: Added GM 'new' engines
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They run well, just be sure to read your plugs before you beat on them. In my experience they are shipped with a very mild tune on the carbs(read lean) for a performance boat.
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Thanks - I've got a Holley street dominator high-rise dual plane intake and an edelbrock 750 marine carb on the current engine - would I be better off running that and the rest of my accessories and saving a couple bucks on buying just a long-block or is the new intake and carb worth it (I prefer holley's FWIW)
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the new mecruiser 383 is a good deal. makes good power and can be bought several different ways. complete or just a long block. according to my mercury tech rep it has all brand new internals like steel crank and forged pistons and they are hand built by mercury marine with a one year extendable warranty.
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Try Bill at Ateco. Worth the phone call to talk to a reputable builder. He builds a bunch of long blocks at very reasonable prices.
(847)623-2737
Shipping on a long block isnt real expensive either.
Kirk
(847)623-2737
Shipping on a long block isnt real expensive either.
Kirk
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[QUOTE=bwiencek;2352993]Do they sell marine engines?? I've never seen a marine specific engine in the summit catalog??
They handle GM Performance Parts and even though the specific crate engine for a marine application is not featured in the catalog, they have it. Talk to someone in technical service. (800) 230-3030.
They handle GM Performance Parts and even though the specific crate engine for a marine application is not featured in the catalog, they have it. Talk to someone in technical service. (800) 230-3030.
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Thanks - I've got a Holley street dominator high-rise dual plane intake and an edelbrock 750 marine carb on the current engine - would I be better off running that and the rest of my accessories and saving a couple bucks on buying just a long-block or is the new intake and carb worth it (I prefer holley's FWIW)
The manifold on those engines has a brass lined water passage, so if you will see salt it may be better to bolt your carb on to it. If I had to do it over I would go with a 383 though.
The manifold on those engines has a brass lined water passage, so if you will see salt it may be better to bolt your carb on to it. If I had to do it over I would go with a 383 though.
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If you're talking a true crate long block (no accesories) you can't beat the ZZ383 direct from Chevrotet. They make an incredible boat motor, a buddy installed a pair in his 26 Sutphen 4 seasons ago 300+ HARD hours, zero problems. Back then they were $4850 each.
Kurt
Kurt