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#1 |
Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: SW Nebraska
Posts: 50
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Here is a good problem to have, I have both a 396 and a 402 BBC. Both engines are complete and are currently running, but could use a freshening up before I would install one in a 72' short-step I am working on. They are only 6 cubic inches apart, but are there any pros or cons, is one better than another? I know the 402 would be the correct year engine for the 72, but it has a junk 307 in it now and I am thinking a BBC would be lots more fun!!! They both have the granny low truck 4spd manual behind them now, but was thinking either Richmond 5 or 6 spd or 700R4. Also what are most of you all running behind your BBC's?? Thanks for the help, Todd.
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Old Chevys never die they are just reborn! |
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#2 |
its all about the +6 inches
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Hilliard Ohio
Posts: 2,693
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Re: BBC Questiones??? 396 vs 402
I'm running a fresh TH400 with a shift kit on my 402
I doubt there is any real advantage or disadvantge. In reality, you'll probably bore the 396 to a 402 just in cleaning it up, and then the 402 would be bored to a 408. |
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#3 |
Watch out for your cornhole !
![]() Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Azle, Texas
Posts: 14,162
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Re: BBC Questiones??? 396 vs 402
In my opinion, the 396 will likely be stronger. The reason I say this is vintage. 396s were earlier engines and they were typically stronger configuration. The 402 came later and were mostly softer tuned due to emissions reasons.
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I'm on the Instagram- @Gearhead_Kevin |
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#4 |
Windy Corner of a Dirty Street
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Pueblo West, Colorado
Posts: 2,926
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Re: BBC Questiones??? 396 vs 402
I have had both in the past as well and in stock form I couldn’t tell the difference between the two with respect to performance even though the 402 is hogged .032” more than a 396.
My 396 actually has .030” 402 pistons in it. Go figure out how that one happened…. It wasn’t the plan that is for sure! ![]()
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Current vehicle collection: 1978 Chevrolet K10, 8.1L, NV4500, NP205 1989 Chevrolet Suburban, 8.1L, NV4500, NP241 1993 Chevrolet C1500 Sportside, TBI 7.4L, 4L60E 2001 Chevrolet K2500HD, Ext Cab, SWB, 8.1L, ZF 6 speed 2014 Chevrolet Impala LTZ 3.6L Vortec 8.1L because life is too short to tolerate underpowered vehicles
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