Budget Question

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MechMan

Master Mechanic
Sep 13, 2018
337
139
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Kingsport, TN
I am thinking that my motor budget for my build will be $5,000. I am looking to make 400 hp and 450 tq at the wheels. Do you think I am on target wioth that budget or am i looking at more? I am currently saving up so increasing my budget is not really an issue at the moment.
 

TURNA

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MechMan

Master Mechanic
Sep 13, 2018
337
139
43
Kingsport, TN
My plan is to use a LQ4 block with L92 heads and a LS3 intake. This budget is just for the motor parts. I plan on redoing the whole car but I need to start somewhere.
 

fleming442

Captain Tenneal
Dec 26, 2013
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:rofl: you said "budget"!

Take your number and multiply it by 1.5, that's where I usually end up. Start amassing parts, search for deals, and it still adds up quickly.
Don't get hung up on a horsepower number; just let it happen. You won't notice the difference between 375 and 400. If you play your cards right, a well matched combination will still put a grin on your mug when you mash the Go pedal.
 
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MechMan

Master Mechanic
Sep 13, 2018
337
139
43
Kingsport, TN
Unfortutunatly I can't start buying parts yet. No place to store them. I am just storing money and making my shopping list right now. I will try not to get too hung up on the numbers.
 

wskirvin

Master Mechanic
May 22, 2017
325
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Indianapolis, In
Budget wise, you could grab a junkyard motor put fresh rings and bearing in it and put a turbo and make the power you want plus a lot more, its cheap but definitely wont be pretty lol
 
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airboatgreg

Comic Book Super Hero
Oct 2, 2016
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I am in a similar dilemma. I am certainly capable of building an engine for my El C and have enough connections regarding machining, mac-daddy parts etc. I just keep going back to a 350/350 crate engine with roller cam, run premium pump fuel and have a good warranty. I put the muncie 4 speed in and finishing up the ford 9" 370 rear end swap project and think that will be enough for me regarding drivability, horsepower and dependability
 

Turbolq4

Royal Smart Person
Sep 25, 2017
1,732
4,207
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Nampa Idaho
My plan is to use a LQ4 block with L92 heads and a LS3 intake. This budget is just for the motor parts. I plan on redoing the whole car but I need to start somewhere.

That setup has lower compression than an LS3 but is still good. With a reasonably good cam and springs you're looking at roughly 450 crank. If you're running a manual transmission then youre not too far from your goal as is. All the internet tools will tell you that you need 1200 horsepowers, triple compound turbos, and a gold plated phallus to have a fast car.

I'm here to tell you that 400+ wheel will get most people in a lot of sketchy situations.

The torque number you are looking for will be a struggle in big cam, NA form.
 
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MechMan

Master Mechanic
Sep 13, 2018
337
139
43
Kingsport, TN
I was going to pull the block for a yard. Right now I am looking to stay N/A. wouldnt I be able to increase the compression ratio though?
 
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