Hey guys.....as i have mentioned in a couple other threads, im thinking of building either a 408 or a 426 stroker from a 5.9 i have. i know there are several of you that have built 408s, but has anyone here built a 426? if so, what would be the best way to go about it. which bottom end kit, heads, cam, injectors etc. i have been told that the 426 isn't very reliable . i would rather have a 426 because lets face it, there is NO replacement for displacement. this project wont be for a year or two, so i'm gathering all the info i can in order to make informed decisions and build a quality engine that will last. i don't plan to hot rod my truck, just build an engine that wont have any hp or torque issues. although it would be fun to smoke a few mustangs and camaros with a 4x4 truck. i guess fuel economy of any kind would be completely out of the question with such an engine though huh? there are several things i have wanted to do with the 5.2 that's currently in the truck, but that would be too easy, and why would anyone mod a 5.2 when they have a spare 5.9, and could build a stroker? what ever i build will have an airgap, and be tuned by hemifever. of course i'll have to build a bullet proof tranny to handle the abuse. any and all input or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

 

i think if you get the 426 you will pay a bunch of coin to find good heads and ported as you can look at an older 426 and compare the flow chart. It would be much more reliable to go with a 408

 

Read this. Seems the kit will throw down some serious numbers..... (imagine that...)

Not suitable for boost, or spray though. Likes like the 408 with a similar build will kick out some good numbers too, just a bit less torque. (something to the tune of 20ft/lbs), is the extra expense worth it? Up to you.

 

I'd stick with a 408. Way more reliable and you'll be able to enjoy it for many years. With the right internals you could run some boost (super charger or turbos) and make an incredible amount of power and torque. As for mpg, you might be surprised. I've seen upwards of 17mpg on the highway and around 14 in town, thats no hot rodding though. Mileage may vary... lol

 

hey you, those are some impressive numbers, and a pretty strong argument for the 408. so i think i'll probably go that route. seems to be just as strong, and more commonly built with longer lasting results. probably cheaper too. now i just have to decide which heads and cam to use. i already know im going to use an airgap, and JBA headers with the jegs y pipe. i will probably delete the cat since emissions isn't an issue where i am. some of these mods i guess i can go ahead and use on the 5.2, and enjoy till i get the beast built. thanks for the help guys. one more question though....what size TB and lb.injectors will i need to run in the 408? i know i cant use the stock 5.2 stuff. seems i've heard to use a 52mm and 30lb. please correct me if i'm wrong.

 

Have read thru this thread.

 

30 lb injectors. 53 mm throttle body.

depends on what you mean by cheap... near $4000 in machine work, $1200 rotating assembly, $1300 heads (ported), not to mention M1 intake, injectors, TB, and anything else that will more than likely run a few hundred bucks... dont forget your TRANNY!