To Build or Not to Build... That is The Question???

[The Cuda Guy]

What n the heck are you gonna do with that cam 

how soon do you need springs? 

Got a screaming deal on a 440 and trans.

1974, 440, 64k miles complete from carb to pan, pullys to flywheel, out of truck
727 trans, needs a rebuild
Radiator
NIB ceramic coated headmen headers

Possibly got some 915 heads in the works.

Im torn on what to do?  Should I hold back on the engine and build a monster stroker or should I take it down to a short block add a cam kit, the proper oil pan, 915 heads, SD intake and 950 carb and just cruise it? 

    

Im torn on this becaue I could possibly fund a monster stroker or monster hemi when I get back from Afganistan in early 2011, since my wife graduated UT and will be employed after this summer.  Im tight on funds just like most others but couldnt pass on this deal, it was that good.  Jim (WSM) has the exact 440 block I want and has offered it for a build and I would perfer to use it for a monster stroker build due to the block characteristics assoicated with that part number ect. Im just confused....

Should I wait or just piece one togeather now with parts I can scavange???

Don

[Chryco Psycho]

well I would toss it together & enjoy it for a while , build it later or find another block when you are back from aftgan .....WTH are you going for a 4th tour 

[The Cuda Guy]

well I would toss it together & enjoy it for a while , build it later or find another block when you are back from aftgan .....WTH are you going for a 4th tour 

Thanks for the advice.  Solid as usual. 

Yeah im slotted for a 4th tour.  Lets just say I wont make Carlisle 2010...  I dont mind deploying its my job, I just dont like being gone for SOOO long!  My son grows up too fast when Im not home... pitfalls or serving.  Im actualy proud to serve, I love being in the service, its just hard sometimes.   

 

Don

Don

[moparniac]

don put the 440 in the cuda and get another block then get it machined etc... and get it on a stand and just gather up pieces here and there for deal until you have complete stroker engine... you big dummy 

[moper]

First, Thanks for serving. My best friend is USAF and has been overseas from Bosnia to Suadi. He's finally stationed stateside for his last couple years before he retires.

If you dont have the cash, do a cam swap and run it. With nothing but bolt ons and stock heads you can get an E body with 3.91s into the 12s for under $1500. So I'd do that. The rest will always be there when you get back.

[lemming303]

I would get it running as cheap as possible, then save the money to build the beast stroker. That's what I'm doing with mine. I'm watching for a real cheap 360 or 318 so that I can drive the car (after I get some other minor stuff done first) until I have enough money to build a 416 out of the 340 block I have.

[Moparal]

Is the block a cast crank engine?  Just curious. Bring that rattle trap over here. We can make it run cheap enough. I do have some parts laying around here n there to.  Also a machine shop close by

[brads70]

Put it in now! Get another block they are not THAT hard to find!

[Bullitt-]

Is the block a cast crank engine?  Just curious. Bring that rattle trap over here. We can make it run cheap enough. I do have some parts laying around here n there to.  Also a machine shop close by

OK Don, Here's the plan... Drop the block off at Alan's & send Terry/tactransman a big block 727 to build.  Alan's machine shop can prep the block & Alan assemble while your deployed. When you get back swing by Terry's & pick up the tranny. Drive the Plymouth down one day & I will come over to drill any holes that are needed & we can have you driving home the next day Big Block Style...  Oh yea may need to find a drive shaft the proper length.