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Achieving over 400 horsepower from a Chevy Small Block 350 is an exciting challenge for car enthusiasts and performance builders. With the right components and a budget of $1,200, you can enhance your engine’s performance significantly. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps and components to reach that horsepower goal.
Understanding the Chevy Small Block 350
The Chevy Small Block 350 is a popular engine choice for performance builds due to its lightweight design and potential for power. It features a 5.7-liter displacement and has been a staple in the automotive community for decades. To unlock its full potential, modifications to various components are essential.
Key Components for Achieving 400+ HP
- Camshaft: Upgrading to a high-performance camshaft is crucial for maximizing airflow and power.
- Intake Manifold: A performance intake manifold allows for better air distribution.
- Carburetor: A larger carburetor can significantly increase fuel delivery.
- Headers: Performance headers improve exhaust flow, enhancing engine efficiency.
- Ignition System: A high-quality ignition system ensures complete combustion.
Choosing the Right Camshaft
Comp Cams offers a variety of camshafts designed to boost performance. For our budget, we recommend:
- Comp Cams Xtreme Energy 274H: This camshaft provides a good balance of power and drivability.
- Duration: 274/286 degrees, with a lift of .480/.480 inches.
Upgrading the Intake Manifold
A performance intake manifold is essential for improving airflow to the engine. Consider the following options:
- Edelbrock Performer RPM: This manifold is designed for increased horsepower and torque.
- Holley Street Dominator: Another excellent choice for maximizing performance.
Choosing the Right Carburetor
A larger carburetor can enhance fuel delivery, which is vital for achieving higher horsepower. Recommended options include:
- Holley 750 CFM Double Pumper: This carburetor provides excellent performance for high-horsepower applications.
- Edelbrock 750 CFM Performer Series: A great alternative for street performance builds.
Improving Exhaust Flow with Headers
To maximize power, it’s essential to improve exhaust flow. High-performance headers are a key component:
- Hooker Super Competition Headers: These headers are designed for maximum flow and performance.
- BBK Performance Headers: A more budget-friendly option that still provides good performance.
Enhancing the Ignition System
A reliable ignition system ensures complete combustion, which is vital for performance. Consider upgrading to:
- MSD Ignition System: Known for its reliability and performance benefits.
- Accell Super Coil: A great option for improving spark output.
Budget Breakdown
Staying within a $1,200 budget requires careful planning. Here’s a sample budget breakdown:
- Camshaft: $300
- Intake Manifold: $250
- Carburetor: $400
- Headers: $300
- Ignition System: $150
Final Thoughts
With the right components, achieving 400+ horsepower from your Chevy Small Block 350 is within reach. By carefully selecting parts from Comp Cams and other reputable brands, you can create a powerful engine that delivers thrilling performance, all while staying within a reasonable budget.