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The Chevy Small Block 350 is a legendary engine known for its versatility and performance potential. With the right upgrades, it is possible to achieve 450 horsepower, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts and racers. This article will focus on two critical components that can significantly enhance the power output of your Small Block 350: the camshaft and carburetor upgrades.
Understanding the Chevy Small Block 350
The Chevy Small Block 350 was introduced in 1967 and has since become one of the most popular engines in automotive history. Its compact design and lightweight construction make it an ideal candidate for performance modifications. The engine’s architecture allows for a wide range of aftermarket parts, enabling enthusiasts to tailor their builds to specific performance goals.
Key Components for Achieving 450 HP
- Camshaft
- Carburetor
- Intake manifold
- Exhaust system
- Ignition system
Choosing the Right Camshaft
The camshaft is one of the most critical components in achieving higher horsepower. It controls the timing and duration of the engine’s valve openings, directly affecting engine performance. For a target of 450 hp, you will need a camshaft that provides sufficient lift and duration.
- Duration: Look for a camshaft with a duration between 230° to 250° at 0.050” lift.
- Lift: Aim for a lift of at least 0.480” to 0.520”.
- Type: Consider a hydraulic roller cam for better performance and reliability.
Popular camshaft options include the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy series and the Edelbrock Performer RPM series. These camshafts are designed to optimize power output while maintaining drivability.
Upgrading the Carburetor
The carburetor is another essential component that influences the engine’s air-fuel mixture. A larger carburetor can provide the necessary fuel for higher horsepower levels. To achieve 450 hp, a carburetor with a flow rating of 750 to 850 CFM is recommended.
- Type: A double pumper carburetor is ideal for performance applications.
- Brands: Consider options from Holley or Edelbrock for reliable performance.
- Tuning: Ensure proper tuning of the carburetor for optimal performance.
Additional Performance Upgrades
While the camshaft and carburetor are critical, other upgrades can help you reach your horsepower goals. Here are some additional components to consider:
- Intake Manifold: Upgrade to a high-performance intake manifold that matches your camshaft and carburetor setup.
- Exhaust System: Invest in headers and a free-flowing exhaust system to reduce backpressure.
- Ignition System: A high-performance ignition system will ensure complete combustion and better throttle response.
Tuning Your Small Block 350
Once you have installed your camshaft and carburetor, proper tuning is essential to achieve the desired horsepower. This involves adjusting the air-fuel mixture, ignition timing, and other parameters to maximize performance.
- Air-Fuel Mixture: Use a wideband O2 sensor to monitor and adjust the mixture for optimal performance.
- Ignition Timing: Adjust the timing to ensure maximum power without knocking.
- Dyno Tuning: Consider a professional dyno tune for precise adjustments and to verify horsepower gains.
Conclusion
Achieving 450 horsepower from your Chevy Small Block 350 is an exciting challenge that requires careful selection of components and tuning. By focusing on camshaft and carburetor upgrades, along with additional performance enhancements, you can unlock the full potential of this iconic engine. With the right setup, your Small Block 350 can deliver exhilarating performance on the street or the track.