454 suggestions

[orangeblossomspecial]

I have done several pickup/blazer projects (1990 Jimmy, 71 gmc, 72 chevy, 73 chevy). Most all frame up restorations or fun projects with my boys. All have been with small blocks. some 2wd, some 4x4.

Im considering another pickup project with a big block - 454 preferably and am not sure what to look for as far as certain years to avoid, what types of heads are the best etc. I've fount several 454's available from $500 - $1200 but outside the ovious,dont know the right questions to ask.



Any help or pointers appreciated.

[bsgmcc20]

Being a BB owner myself. What i looked for was broken motor mounts. check to see if the previous owner had done a Motor swap with out the heavy duty springs ect. Exhaust headers are another to watch for. and Starter shims. Give a few a look over and see if there is any BB trucks to give you an idea of Look and layout of engine campartment and maybe options for that truck. on the protect-o-plate.

Hope a few of these ideas may help.

[orangeblossomspecial]

Thanks

What I'm specifically looking for is the engine only. I'll build the truck around it. But what are the best years for the 454? I understand there may be 3 variations of heads. some better performers than others.

Thanks

[pig rig]

if you can get your hands on a chev big block parts interchange manual from cartech books, that has a lot of info with casting numbers. also hotrod magazine has a big block book thats real good reading. you can get them both at a barns & noble

[andrewmp6]

The older the 454 the better, Heads your kinda better going aftermarket efi or carb is up to you.The 454 was used up in tell 2001 i think in the 1 tons.

[Alex1]

Try to get something from the 70's or early 80s and you will be good. these are all Mrk IV BBC's.

[budgetstperformance]

what are you planing on useing the truck for? i have a 454 in my dually it has peanut heads witch is best for torque=towing. if your building the truck to hot rod oval or square heads would be better. here are the casting #s http://www.mortec.com/bbc.htm
basicly there are 454 that are restrictive flow and make power at low rpms for trucks and there are higher flowing for corvetts.