I'm looking for some tech info on rebuilding a 400 block from 1971 to go in my 69 convertible. I also have a set of 428 heads I can use if that would help matters. I'm looking for good daily driveability along with a little performance.

First, should I use the 428 heads or the 400 heads? I'll have date codes this weekend if it matters.

Second, is there a source on this or other websites that can give me some guidelines regarding head upgrades, good aftermarket performance upgrades, etc.

This is my first engine rebuild, but I have an experienced builder that is helping me. I'll have the block bored if necessary, or just honed if the wear is not severe.

Other than that, I have a blank canvas. If this were your project, how would you put this engine together?

All help is sincerely appreciated..

Rick

How about this:

https://firstgenfirebird.org/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=23;t=001757

and then this:

/forums/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=23;t=001758#000000

Rick,

I just went through this WHOLE process of building up a 400.

Here is the specs of the engine that I did, feel free to me if you want to chat, I'd be more than happy to help.

400 block bored .030 over.
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a. Casting flash around pushrods removed.
b. Square-decked and removed .010.
c. Cleavite bearings.

Forged Sealed-Power pistons.
-----
a. Hasting rings.

Stock connecting rods.
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a. Excess weight removed from both ends, then balanced.
b. APR rod bolts.

Stock crank
-----
a. Excess weight and casting flash removed.
b. Balanced

Cam is clone of Summit-2801 that came with my rebuild kit
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a. 214 int/224 exh

6X-4 heads
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a. Exhaust valves enlarged to 1.77.
b. New valves and springs.
c. Cylinder bowls ported and all casting flash removed.
d. All casting flash removed in upper oil drain down area.
e. 1.5 ratio Comp Cam Magnum roller-rockers.

My final compression ratio will be right about 8.6:1.

There are plenty of good combo's in Jim hands book.
How to build max performance pontiac V-8s

Thanks for the quick replies... I just ordered Jim's book from Amazon. Thomas, thanks for the number, I'll give you a call. I went through your pictures on Yahoo, and I've done a lot of the same things. I sandblasted my own subframe and rebuilt the A-frames and converted to disc brakes. I've got the subframe back in place and I'm removing the rear end this weekend to put go through and also install new leaf springs.

This website is a goldmine if you know where to go. Thanks for the help and I'll post the results as I go.

Rick