I need advice. Im looking for a Small Block Chevy Crate Engine (yes i know crate engines are kinda frowned upon here) But im looking for a ready to go kind of SBC that i can put a Tri Carb Stromberg set up on when i get it. Im confused by all the different ones on the market, any advice on the best one for my needs?
Look for something in the 300-350 HP range unless you are putting it into a heavy car then up your ponies to about the 380 - 400 HP range.
Buy one from a GM dealership parts department. It's all brand new, not rebuilt and it comes with a warranty that's honored at any GM dealership service department.
I'm not a crate mtr guy but have helped install several and they run fine and no h***les, The ZZ motors seem to run real well especially with the 425 HP cam and kit.. Helped put one in a 40 cpe for a friend and it ran pretty strong.
I would go with Rochester 2G carbs instead of the Strombergs. Check with Summitt and Jegs they have sales on crate engines and include free shipping at times.
I can't say I'd bother with a 195hp 350, but that's just me. I wouldn't start at anything less than 300hp myself.
I wouldn't either but provided that example of what's available at that price for comparison purposes.
I had a 260 HP Goodwrench 350 in my old O/T astro van [Rocky Goodtime van TM] and it filled it's intended purpose with a 600 Holley and headers. Was trouble free. I think they're around 1700 bucks new at the chevy dealer.
If you want to use an older tri-power intake-check out what heads are used on the crate motor. The newer "Vortec" heads have vertical intake manifold bolts which will not work with older manifolds . I know the 330 HP motor has the newer heads -I suspect the lower HP do not. Consult a perf parts catalog or a dealer
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