I’m considering using a DSS 331 or 347 long block instead of building my own 351w. The advantages are obvious, but basically, for about 1-2 grand more than I would spend to build the 351w mostly myself, I could get a DSS 347 long block that would be:
a) built, perhaps warrantied and at least supported by a shop that knows what they’re doing
b) allow me to re-sell my old engine to recoup some of the extra costs
c) be about 100 lbs lighter than my current engine without some of the space-related issues I run into now and then
d) be a roller engine
e) would be a lot less work on my end.
A few questions:
1) That whole pricing argument is dependent on me being able to re-use many of the little parts on my 351w. I might replace the water pump and balancer anyway, but do things like the oil pump, oil pan, timing cover, distributor, headers, water pump and balancer that I have on my 351w fit 302-based engines? My current power steering setup, alternators and other accessories and their mounting stuff will continue to fit, right? Will my exhaust bolt right up or will it need to be modified?
2) Whats everyone stance on 331s vs. 347s? Both seem to be pretty popular.
3) 302 based engines don’t have a problem fitting in 66’s with intakes like Performer RPMs, Weiand Stealths, and RPM Air-gaps, right?
4) When using a roller cam, I’ve heard the principle advantage is that more aggressive cams are easier to drive around on the street. Anyone have a recommendation for a roller cam grind that is easy to drive and makes power from idle-ish to 6 grand?
5) If anyone knows some good engine shops I should cross-shop DSS’s offerings against, let me know. I know about CHP and am looking into them as well.
a) built, perhaps warrantied and at least supported by a shop that knows what they’re doing
b) allow me to re-sell my old engine to recoup some of the extra costs
c) be about 100 lbs lighter than my current engine without some of the space-related issues I run into now and then
d) be a roller engine
e) would be a lot less work on my end.
A few questions:
1) That whole pricing argument is dependent on me being able to re-use many of the little parts on my 351w. I might replace the water pump and balancer anyway, but do things like the oil pump, oil pan, timing cover, distributor, headers, water pump and balancer that I have on my 351w fit 302-based engines? My current power steering setup, alternators and other accessories and their mounting stuff will continue to fit, right? Will my exhaust bolt right up or will it need to be modified?
2) Whats everyone stance on 331s vs. 347s? Both seem to be pretty popular.
3) 302 based engines don’t have a problem fitting in 66’s with intakes like Performer RPMs, Weiand Stealths, and RPM Air-gaps, right?
4) When using a roller cam, I’ve heard the principle advantage is that more aggressive cams are easier to drive around on the street. Anyone have a recommendation for a roller cam grind that is easy to drive and makes power from idle-ish to 6 grand?
5) If anyone knows some good engine shops I should cross-shop DSS’s offerings against, let me know. I know about CHP and am looking into them as well.