454 Big Block Dilemma

[87Lowrider]

I finally found a 454 to put into my '87 SWB, stock 350 tbi, 700R4 and wouldn't you know it, I find two!

One is a '74 454 bored .030 over, Edelbrock intake, cam, etc... (Don't know all the specs yet, but it's carbureted with a Holley 750)

At the same time, the same guy has a '87 1ton dually with a 454 in it, TBI, and it runs. I can get harnesses, sensors, ECM, tranny for about the same price as the '74 motor.

Dimemma is: I don't know if I'd be better off with the older (built) carb'd motor or the newer stock one with fuel injection. Thoughts anyone?

Kenny

[Srubydo1986]

the one that not touched. reason fuel injection cuase you could always build that engine.

[454HO]

The 454 TBI system will not support a lot of horspower. The throttle body is too small, and the heads are definately the small 'peanut' port heads. If you just want a torque monster, it would probably be a good place to start. But if you want something that can rev past 4500rpm, then you will need better heads and intake.

[Pyrotechnic]

We need to know how much HP you want, how you plan to use the truck, and how much you want to spend past the initial cost of the engine, as in whether or not you want to just drop something in as is or have some work done to it.

[rfmaster]

'87lowrider

Holley 4BBL TBI body can flow 670 CFM which is on the par with with Q-Jet Carb. Stock 2BBL (52mm throttles) BBC injectors are rated at about 90 lb/hr at 13 psi which is enough to support low rpm operation (up to about 4500RPM) and about 300 Hp. You'll have to bump fuel pressure (stock pump must be replaced) from 13 psi to about 20+ and install VAFPR which is used in marine BBC application by GM. You'll have to burn your own chips - it is not that difficult but 450HP/500ft-lbs is possible without going wild. Some head work will be required (mild porting). Just do not crazy with cam - SD systems do not like wild cams at idle.

//RF

[blackenedk10]

FOOD FOR THOUGHT....

I don't what the laws are for emissions in your area but here is something to consider. I know emission laws vary from state to state but you may run into this problem. I don't remember if it's state or federal law but basically it states you can't put an older motor into a newer vehicle, you also have to comply with the emission's spec's from the new motor. the motor from the 74' would be a no go but the 87' and newer would be fine. Kind of a dumb law.

Like I said this is just food for thought. It could save you some headaches down the line.

I personally would go ether way myself, but would perfer to go with fuel injection.

[87Lowrider]

Thanks for the input!

Emissions aren't an issue here in Kentucky. The truck is just a weekend cruiser (toy) so it could be mild to wild and it wouldn't bother me at all.

[454HO]

Originally Posted by 87Lowrider

The truck is just a weekend cruiser (toy) so it could be mild to wild and it wouldn't bother me at all.

If that's the case, then definately go with the TBI motor. You can always bolt on some 'upgrades' for more power if you get the desire.

[streetstar]

stock Chevy heads suck for big league power (excepting of course the 990 head) but are fine for good torque and driveability -- but as far as going fast goes , well - its tow truck and station wagon technology.

I agree with everyone else in theory -- go for the TBI motor and get a set of Dart or Merlin heads later when you want to step it up (after you stroke it to 496 or 505 ci that is )

[hiway]

I think the TBI motor looking all stock would have a coolness factor to it. But, if your looking to go fast....just get either short block and build it.

[87Lowrider]

Sounds good. Lots of good info to chew on.. decision time tomorrow. thanks everyone.

[benoit454]

If it was me, hands down I'd buy the carb'd one. it has mods done to it, and I guess runs? and same price as plan jane stocker? I'd go with built.

I don't like fuel injection when it comes to working on one at all.

[87Lowrider]

That's what I've been thinking too. I'm not much on troubleshooting problems with TBI when they arrise. Thanks! - Kenny

[Jim85IROC]

I have the stock 454 tbi in my 87 1-ton. Buy the 74 motor. The stock 454 is not much of an improvement over a stock 350. It's got about the same power, a little more torque, weighs a lot more and is a gas hog. I can't wait until I get the time and money to put a real set of heads, cam and carb on this thing.

[87Lowrider]

I was gonna go with the TBI motor but I'm more of a carb guy. I'll have the '74 motor in the garage in a couple days. I'll post some pics asap.