327 Engine Rebuilt

[Kenny Hancock]

I will be rebuilidng the NOM 327/350 in my 1967 coupe this winter and am considering stroking it to either 350 cid or 383 cid for a little more torque. The engine is a correct 1967 "657" block, just not original to my car. Can this block be stroked to 350 cid or 383 cid like a later model block? It seems like I've read somewhere there are some potential problems with the early blocks if they are clearanced for the 383 crank. I realize I would need to accomodate for the larger main size. Thanks for your input.

[Joe L.]

Re: 327 Engine Rebuilt

Kenny-----

The last sentence of your post implies that you think that "accomodating for the larger main size" is a relatively inconsequential issue. It's not. I don't even know if it can be done and, if it can, it certainly can't be done easily.

Nevertheless, I think you could convert to a longer stroke, either 3.48" or 3.75", by obtaining a custom made crankshaft with the early main bearing size. This would be expensive. Plus, I would not recommend doing it, regardless. Unless you also made other major upgrades to the bottom end, you would still have a relatively weak bottom end. It just wouldn't be worth the effort and expense. If you want a 350 or 383, then your best bet is to use a 350 block. They're quite plentiful.

[Kenny Hancock]

Re: 327 Engine Rebuilt

Joe:

Thanks for your reply. The reason I was considering making the change to the current block was that it is the correct 1967 block and also has the correct date code to fit the manufacturer date of the car. I'm not going to restamp the block, but just thought it might be of some value to have the correct block and date code. I was considering using steel main caps and ARP studs to help strengthen the bottom end, or machining the block to accept 4-bolt main caps, but then again that's more expense that may not be worth the effort. Thanks again for your input.

[Kurt K.]

Re: 327 Engine Rebuilt

Kenny, I would agree with using a 350 block.. You would be $$ ahead.. If you want big power, I would shelf the 327 and build a 383 stroker out of a 350.. The machine work and all the expense to do the 327 will be staggering.. Keep the 327 safe, Its worth more unmodified....Kurt

[Scott Marzahl]

Re: 327 Engine Rebuilt

Rebuild the 327 stock and stick it in the corner. Then build a 383 or better yet a 410 or 427 small block using a 400 block for your get with it engine.