Hello all, I have read a many threads regarding putting a small journal 327 crank in a 283ci. I have read that later 283ci have factory clearance for this crank as the area at the bottom end of the cylinder bore has a convex shape. After looking unsuccessfully for a picture of this im unsure what i'm looking for. I am not at all familiar with Chevy Small blocks but have decided to put one on my EJ Holden. I bought the block dissembled the block is standard bore and in good condition. The crank however is not good. I havn't had a good look at it but if i can find a 327SJ crank why not. I plan to to 060 over and if i can use the 327SJ crank i will have 316CI not bad Here are the details of my block Casting 3756519 Date Code: E-25-0 (may, 25th 1960) Vin indicated it is a Flint factory block. I have attached a pic of the my block, there is a convex shape going fromt the bottom of the bore to the pan rail, does this mean that i will be able to fit a 327SJ crank? Thanks in advance.
http://www.hotrod.com/articles/ccrp-9812-chevy-small-block-v8-engine-specs/ Installing a 3.25-inch-stroke 327 crank in a 3.875-inch-bore 283 block builds a 307ci engine. Have a read of the rules and do an introduction ASAP.
Building your own engine is fun, but intentually building a 307 considered to be one POS by 99% of SBC lovers takes moxie here. If asked I would always describe it as a stroked 283. By the way I see nothing wrong with it. Good luck.
Poor bore/stroke ratio. There is a reason that no hi pro 307's were built by the factory. They were all low hp 2bbl grocery getters
There have been loads of engines with less than optimal b/s ratios, but I really don't think that matters here. More likely GM wanted buyers to step up to a 327 or 350 for their horsepower/ performance needs. Just like when you could get a 283 or order the 327. There was no more hi- perf 283, you had to go for the 327.
I believe the block you want is a 66-67 283 as far as I can remember. Set the crank in the block with bearings and check the counterweight to bottom of the bore clearance, it will be easy to tell if you have clearance or not! And remember you cannot grind the bottom of the bores for clearance!! Lippy
Thanks for the response, I had planned to go 060 to 3.935" piston and with a 3.25" stroke giving 316CI. I've managed to find a SJ 327 crank and see how it goes. Thanks
Pretty sure you won't be able to use the 327 crank with that block. I have only heard of 62 and up 283 blocks having the extra clearance (the 327 was introduced in '62, so no need for extra clearance before that).