Dart vs Merlin
#21
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It really depends on too many variables from my experience. I studied this at length recently and bought Dart for my 698" engines.
The Dart is really better for large cubes than smaller engines. Has some issues with smaller engines. I think was cylinder #2.
Merlin may be better for normal size engines.
Brodix has been the best for most engines when ported correctly.
A couple very notable engine guys told me that the Edelbrock Super Victor was amazingly good for the price. Down about 10-15 HP on a big HP engine (up to 540ci) compared to the others but very inexpensive. I heard this from some big guys so if your on a budget...
The Dart is really better for large cubes than smaller engines. Has some issues with smaller engines. I think was cylinder #2.
Merlin may be better for normal size engines.
Brodix has been the best for most engines when ported correctly.
A couple very notable engine guys told me that the Edelbrock Super Victor was amazingly good for the price. Down about 10-15 HP on a big HP engine (up to 540ci) compared to the others but very inexpensive. I heard this from some big guys so if your on a budget...
#23
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For a low (<6000 RPM) 540" and smaller motor the merlin has better sized runners. For 540's twisting 6500+ and 572"+ motors the Dart will do better. I do not know much about the other manifolds mentioned. I run a match ported Dart on my 6500 RPM 598" solid roller motor and it seems to work well. From my recent research a dual quad tunnel ram is worth another 40+ HP on my motor. Keep in mind when testing air density alone can be worth 100-200 RPM.
Craig
Craig