I am looking for tips (that have worked successfully for other Mopar Owners) On tricks for building a very strong 440 cid Engine on a tight budget.
I just found a Bare 440 block(part#2536430-10) with main bearing caps. I Have an existing running 4 barrel 386 (which leaks bad enough to foul the sparkplugs) in my 1966 Dodge Coronet 500 with a new TPI 727 transmission. Which parts can I use from the 386? which parts should I not use? what tests should I have done to the 440 block before i start buying parts?
I can not afford to buy one of those complete balanced 440 stroker kits i see advertised for $1800. but can I order a stroker crank by itself? can i piece together my own stroker kit on a budget?
2nd question where can i get the BEST DEAL on a gasket kit and a ring kit for my running 383?

 

above spammer post deleted......
FF

 

be fore you mount the engine to trans be sure the alinement pins, 2 ea. are inthe engine. the pins press fit into the engine. i think the dia is 1/2 inch. if they are not there it will wipe out the flex plate.

 

You should really pickup a manual on building these motors. It will save you a LOT of heaches.

Hitup these guys

www.wermopar.com

It's a killer site and I've gotten a lot of parts and advice from these guys.

 

I'm thinking you mean which parts from your 383 will work on a 440, correct?
Not much as far as the short block goes. Crank, rods, bearings, along with, pistons, pushrods, distributor, and intake all different.


Heads, cam, timing gears, timing chain, timing cover, exhaust manifolds, rockers, valve covers, oil pan, oil pump, water pump, starter, engine mounts, alternator, power steering pump will all bolt up.
Question is, do you really want to reuse all or just some of these?

Moe is referring to two dowel pins protruding from the back of the block face that locates the transmission case (auto) or bell housing (manual). They must be there.


Here's a good 440 read and net source for ya....................


http://www.forabodiesonly.com/mopar/...d.php?t=249866


http://www.forbbodiesonly.com/

 

Check out 440source.com for all your 440 needs.

 

I would chose Indy Cylinder over 440 Source. I talked to three engine builders (Ray Barton and guy with a cute blonde daughter...forget his name) and they told me to stay away from 440. Indy utomer service can be dicks from my experience, so they may have marginally better parts that are made in China just like 440 source, but prep them better.