383-2bbl vs 383-4bbl

[Anonymous]

What are the differences between these two engines? I know the carbs and intake are different but are there any other differences such as compression ratio, cam profile etc.

Just wondering because I may try some upgrades to my 383-2bbl in the future or even put in a stroked 400 block as I've been told a stroked 400 is better than a 440.

Whats more cost effective in your opinion? Upgrade the 383 or or go for a stroked 400?
I want to keep it driveable though and not kill the fuel consumption too much.

Opinions gratefully received.

[Dave-R]

Differences between the two engines which two years? They changed the spec from year to year.

But in general the differences you might find are;

Compression ratio
Bearing materials and clearences
Cam profile
Valve stem diameter and clearence
Valve springs.

Unless you use Edelbrock heads with a closed chamber you might find it tricky to get 383 pistons with a decent compression ratio.

[Jon]

Which is more cost effective depends how much you want to spend and how fast you want to go
the 451(stroked 400) will be much faster and probably not much worse on fuel, it uses a 440 crank so the main cost would be machining and custom pistons, thats what I would do (well actually it isn't, I was in the same situation and fitted a stroked 440 8) )
just upgrading the 383 would probably work out cheaper though

[Anonymous]

Thanks for that guys! Just toying with the idea at the moment as I won't be able do anything to the engine for a year or two due lack of funds.

[AllKiller]

The 383 would be great, stick with it its smaller physically and in cubic capacity, but it will rev more, and quicker than the 440.
And with good closed chamber Eddy heads or Indys and a cam, you should be able to run with the bigger motors
Put a purple shaft 484 hydraulic cam in it and 750 - 800 holley single plane manifold, (Holley street dominator) is best, and a deep sump.
I did this to mine and ran lovely on the sreet and 12s at the strip
Or if you want bigger stroke it out to 431 ci with the 440 crank.

[Anonymous]

Thanks Allkiller
What was the fuel consumption like after those mods?

[AllKiller]

The fuel consumption was reasonable around 12 - 15 mpg, That was until I added the 3500 stall convertor and 4.10 gears in the rear end, now its about 8 - 10, Mine is also a very pump gas unfriendly 12.5 to 1, you cant get those pistons anymore, but you dont need em really, especially if you are gonna use it on the street alot.

I know thats not brilliant, but the car is docile around town and awesome when you hit the Loud pedal. it was still great with the 3.23 gears
What is your aim ?

[Cannonball]

i can verify that them 383s can rev, have heard allkillers screamin up the strip plenty times sounds ace

[AllKiller]

Thanks Dunc, trying the gas this year ( boom ) !! I hope not.

[Anonymous]

Thanks again Allkiller,
My aim really is for more power with out spending a ridiculous amount of money whilst still keeping it nice to drive on the street.

It has actually got enough go at the moment especially since I fiitted the electronic ignition. But in a year or two after I've decorated the house and finished my wifes car I should have the time and money to spend on my car.

I prefer to mainly cruise around so mpg around 12 to 15 would be good. And the extra power would be good for the strip (if I can ever pluck up the courage).

[AllKiller]

Come and see me at Billing or the Mopar nats and have a chat

[Anonymous]

Ok will do!
I should be going to atleast one of those shows if not both.

[AllKiller]

Cool See you then,
its the turquoise blue 73 Cuda with white Billboards