5 Answers

Probably the cheapest way is to find one for sale and buy it as cheep as you can.

14 years ago. Rating: 1
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I took the liberty of posting your question on my site-- Bunch of 'motorheads' very smart people, here is a reply for you..

This guy responding to your request is an engine builder and a pro at this type of thing. See below

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Actually, in all seriousness, the cheapest way honestly is to get a nitrous kit to make up the difference. But you can only count on about a 100 hp shot on a stock 350, which is not going to get them what they're looking for.

I'd advise using a 4-bolt block and have it rebuilt with forged pistons and rods. Iron crank will live with that. Then get a cam for performance; doesn't really matter which kind of cam, as long as it matches the compression ratio. Typically, they'll have around a 9.5:1 compression ratio, plus or minus. So assuming they have an emissions test, a cam no bigger than about 270 degrees duration (total advertised) should be adequate. That'll get them to around 300 horse, maybe 325. Then they'll need a big hit of 250 to 300 hp of nitrous. It's easier if they're carbureted.

Pistons: $430 or so.
Rods: $213
Rebuild kit: $180
Cam: Depends. Count on around $300 to be safe. Include lifters if flat-tappet.
Nitrous kit: $550 give or take
Machine work: $750 average

And that's if they do the work themselves. If not, add $500 for the machinist to assemble the engine.

See if you can find out what they're doing and what kind of car it's in. Reason I ask is that undoubtedly they will find the next weak link in their drivetrain. There aren't too many stock tranny and rear end set-ups that will live with that kind of a power increase. The older Chevy musclecars will...for a while anyway. Muncie transmissions and 10-bolt rear ends will live for a bit under that kind of power, but will eventually fail also and will need upgrading. But anything from the 80's and newer...uh uhh. I don't think so. T5's and 700R4's and the weaker rear ends won't take it.

14 years ago. Rating: 1
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Duh.

14 years ago. Rating: 0
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There is no way to build a "cheap" SB Chevy. 600 HP engine will cost you 15 large.

14 years ago. Rating: 0
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the cheapest horse power is made by introducing nitros oxidide to the fuel mix. it is also the most distructive way to obtain your goal

14 years ago. Rating: 0
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