406 smallblock advice needed

[bigvinnie]

There's a 406 shortblock for sale in town, here are the specs:

511 casting, 4 bolt mains
.030 overbore
Performer plus cam
double roller chain
stock 400 rods (5.56 inch)

comes with balancer and flexplate, has been sitting covered in this guy's garage for a year, machine work was done by the best shop in town, he assembled it himself, which would mean I'd have to re-check everything or have someone else do it...

He's asking $800... I realize the 4 bolt main blocks are less desireable, but I've also researched on the net, and opinions seem to vary widely on the subject... I do know the 511 casting is one of the better ones, with the 817 casting being the one to stay away from.

I'd probably not try to get more than 350 hp/ 450 torque out of this motor, and not spin it past 5500 rpm

I'd appreciate any opinions on whether this sounds like a good purchase...


thanks all...