[kdh454]

$5k is going to be a tight budget for 600HP. You will need to find some good deals on used parts and do some work yourself to accomplish your goal.

First, as mentioned above, tear the block down and have your machinist check it out. He should be able to tell you what work needs to be done and give you an accurate quote. If it is in decent shape, I would expect to spend $500-$750 on the block alone. If the heads you acquire need work or you want the shop to assemble the engine for you, it is going to be several hundred more.

That leaves about $4k or less in parts to work with.

I would start with a 496 rotating assembly. By the time you have your factory parts reconditioned and buy new pistons and rings, it doesn't cost much more. SCAT and Eagle make cast (no need for forged at this power level) rotating assemblies for around $1500. Using iron heads is going to limit your max CR on pump gas to around 9:1. You may get away with a little more if you plan to run 92 octane.

$2,500 left.

Heads. Forget about aluminum with this budget, even a used set would likely be too pricey. I would suggest looking for a set of 049 oval port heads. Chevy made a ton of those things and they can be had for a couple hundred dollars per set. Again, have your machinist check them out before spending any money or time on them. Have the shop install larger valves (2.19/1.88 or so). You can do some minor blending yourself, just do your research and don't go crazy with it. Some milling may be required to reach your target CR. In all, you will be into the heads $750 or so.

$1,750 left.

Cam/lifters/springs. Use some restraint and don't go too big on the cam. The 496 will allow you to get away with a larger cam than a 454 but don't go too big or you will end up sacrificing torque and drive-ability for unusable top end power. A hydraulic cam kit will run close to $400.

$1,250 left.

Carb. 850cfm, vacuum secondary would be a good fit. A new Holley will run you $550. Used carbs are a gamble if you are not good with them but there is an opportunity to save some cash here.

$700 left.

You still need headers, an intake (dual plane), possibly an ignition system (stock HEI is fine), seals, bearings, etc. Look for good deals on used parts where possible.


I think that is about as good as you can do for your budget. Will it make 600HP? I doubt it, but it should be 500+ HP with tons of torque.

Good luck.