The meager block Chevy engines, introduced in 1955 at 265 cubic inches, continued expanding in proportions all the more while maintaining the corresponding independent size. The 400 cubic inch history was produced from 1970 to 1980 and reached practical limits of displacement by increasing the cylinder Muzzle to 4.125 inches and lengthening the stroke to 3.75 inches. It was available in Chevrolet cars until 1976 and in Chevy and GMC trucks concluded 1980.
Bolt-on Upgrades
The 400 cubic inch engine was never intended to be performance oriented, nevertheless it yet became recognized as a model capable high-performance platform. Rare completely genuine 400 engines exist nowadays.
In attempting to avail this engine in a performance exercise, the antecedent universe to lodging is the tuneup. Make certain that the ignition, fuel and cooling systems are all operating optimally. The cooling course is critical; since of its larger-bore width, the 400 was designed with no coolant flowing between the cylinders. As a consequence, they are prone to damage from excess heat.
A cool-running, well-tuned 400 Testament conceive acceptable faculty in inventory figure, even many enthusiasts prefer extra. The two most cost-effective improvements are exterior engine modifications. The fundamental nature of center should be the exhaust step. The plant Accoutrement is designed for close, dependable system nevertheless is restrictive. Replacing the cast-iron exhaust manifolds with aftermarket headers and dual exhaust Testament ameliorate dynamism and efficiency.
The alongside globe to domicile is the fuel process, exclusively the intake manifold and carburettor. Not all 400 engines were originally equipped with a four-barrel (4V) carburetor--again, since performance was never the argument. For those that were so equipped, replacing the foundry cast-iron intake manifold with an aftermarket dual-plane manifold will improve intake airflow. The GM Rochester four-barrel spread-bore carb on the 400/4V engine is adequate for mild performance applications, but the bore pattern requires a manifold with the same pattern. If replacing a 2V carb and intake manifold, an aftermarket 4V manifold and carburetor will be necessary. These two modifications will improve airflow and can increase power output by 10 to 20 percent or more in normal operating ranges, from idle through approximately 5,000 rpm, without making the car difficult to drive.
Note that installing an induction system that is designed for high rpm use will decrease low-end power and overall performance unless you make other substantial modifications.
Internal Modifications
Modifications to the cylinder heads (porting or outright replacement with more modern heads) will complement the camshaft change. These upgrades can make as much or more of an improvement to performance as do the intake/exhaust upgrades.Beyond these "bolt-on/bolt-in" upgrades, internal modifications to the connecting rods, pistons and crankshaft are essential. The stock internal components were not designed for high rpm use or power output, so be careful when planning and selecting parts.Other performance improvements are more complex and require disassembling part (or all) of the engine. Since this engine had an intended rpm range below 5,000, further upgrades require more thought. First, the original camshaft is designed for a smooth idle and low maintenance. Carefully select an aftermarket camshaft to make a meaningful difference in output.
Properly configured, however, this engine is capable of outputs much higher than 500 horsepower.
