Author Topic: 400 4 bolt main  (Read 4195 times)

mopar346

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400 4 bolt main
« on: November 15, 2010, 12:18:59 AM »
I have run across someone who claims they have a 400 SBC 4 bolt main. I thought they only made 2 bolt mains. Did they in fact make a 4 bolt that I am unaware of???

Thanks, Kevin

acelr8

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Re: 400 4 bolt main
« Reply #1 on: November 15, 2010, 12:45:28 AM »
Yes made in 70 and maybe 71.Usually has 3 freeze plugs down side also.Jeff

mopar346

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Re: 400 4 bolt main
« Reply #2 on: November 15, 2010, 12:58:22 AM »
Thanks, are they strong or beefier through out like a 350 4 bolt? What was there HP rating? Any specs?

DeanZ10

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Re: 400 4 bolt main
« Reply #3 on: November 15, 2010, 01:53:53 AM »
BTW
The 400 is externally balanced. Had one 30 years ago in a 69 with 4 speed. VERY torquey car.
Could take off in 3rd gear and smoke the tires. It was basically rebuilt stock.

mopar346

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Re: 400 4 bolt main
« Reply #4 on: November 15, 2010, 01:59:38 AM »
So do you think a 4 bolt main 400 is a better bert than a 4 bolt 350/383? It appears to be the same money either way. It is going in a 89 4X4 1500 auto. Should I step up the cam to something in the 460 - 480 lift range with the p[roper heads of course.

dutch

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Re: 400 4 bolt main
« Reply #5 on: November 15, 2010, 02:56:04 AM »
From what I have heard the 4 bolt version of 400 block isn't a strong as a 2 bolt one especially after a 2 bolt version has been converted to a 4 bolt configuration with splayed caps and bolts - but unless you're racing it it wouldn't make any difference I suspect.
Given the choice (especially for a truck) I would choose the 400 motor properly cammed over a similar but smaller 383 type - no replacement for displacement...
They both have loads of torque done up right but the 400 probably more - and as long as you make sure it is cooled right it should win the torque war and move that truck pretty well!

Randy

mopar346

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Re: 400 4 bolt main
« Reply #6 on: November 15, 2010, 03:19:54 AM »
Thanks.