396/402 BBC

[tortu15071]

I have an oppertunity to buy a complete pan to intake running 402 big block for $800. It blows blue smoke so it may need valve seals or rings. Block casting is 3999290 and has "hi perf" stamped in the heads. Any ideas if this is worth it? I currently have a 350 with vortec heads. Any input is appreciated.

Thanks!

[Rock]

$800 is pretty good price if you can do the engine work yourself.

[tortu15071]

I plan on pulling the heads to have them ported and put a matching cam in it. I'd be doing the labor myself except for the machine work.

[Rock]

I have seen people ask $500 or more just for a late 60 or early 70 block. 800 for everything is a no brainer.

[cny first gen 71]

Yea $800 is a pretty good price if you want a big block, gotta figure in the rebuilding price also. You really do want to tear it all down and check it over good.

[tortu15071]

I had just built the vortec 350 over the winter too and it runs great and now this 402 came up and I'd really like to make it a big block car. The motor ran good in the other car but since I'm not in desperate need of an engine I am just going to slowly build it over about 2 years time. Another question I have is that I believe the th350 will bolt to the 402? But I am not positive on that?

[monte70car]

Yes a th350 will bolt to a Big Block. Its when you get the BOP style trans you have to be careful of.

[420ponies]

​The transmission will need some upgrading done on it too since the big block has more torque. plan on going thru it with new clutches and seals. A 2500 stall converter would be good also. Gearing will  need to be right also 3:42 to 3:73 preferred if a 10bolt housing

[Sam (Bones)]

I'd hold off and look for a 454, they can be had for the same money

[Mike 57]

If you are looking to restore a 402 car it may be worth it, but other than that it is a small big  block. And if it has big heads it will be a dog on bottom end.

[Jared Richey]

I agree go with the 454.