Different Strokes

[Todd Israels]

At 10:44 PM 1/31/99 -0600, you wrote:
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>David Sagers wrote:
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>> In a conversation with the machine shop this afternoon the engine
builder said I should consider going with a shorter stroke.  I can build a
4" stroke 434 ci, a 3.75" 406 ci, or a 3.48" stroke 355 ci engine.  The
block I have is already clearanced for the 4" stroke so the additional cost
of preparing the block isn't a factor.   I already own the 4" crank and
rods, and the crank can be traded out for a shorter stroke without any
additional cost.
>
>The SBC needs longer rods. The local 434 alcohol motors turn 7500+ and
make 675+ HP w/ a 4BBL and a Donovan aluminum block. The longer stroke
motors are hard on blocks and cranks, stock blocks won't last at all in a
432. 410s are now the rage. I have also seen a 355 (400 block 327 crank) at
11000 rpm. 383s, and 377s. Mine is a 6" rod 406. Turbo motors need
extremely strong bottom ends.  IMHO, the 432 will break the block a 6000
rpm w/ 15 lbs boost,
>and the crank will be gone too. Go with the 406 or smaller.   just another
$.02   Tom
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	Just another thought on this subject I would think traction and
driveability at lower RPM would be important.  I would have the car run as
normal untill about 2000RPM then wake up and go like crazy to 5000RPM or
so.  This will give good driveability  in traffic and such and still run
strong.  This is the aproch I am using for my project A V8 Fiero.  I wont
be using a turbo but plan to use EFI to make a V8 run good off its cam and
light up when I need (want) it.  
	I drove a 355 Fiero and it started to drizzle, we could hardly leave a
light or turn a corner without the rear breaking losse.  The owner rarely
drives the car and says he liked the original 350 2Barrel from a pickup
better than the 355 monster it became.  
	Just a thought on what will make the better street car.  Good Luck with
your project.  
			Todd Israels