What does it take to build a 383?

[Rib Tickler]

I can`t remember anymore, it`s been a while since I`ve been involved in this stuff. Do all you need is a 350 block with 400 crank and rods? I`m looking at starting a project truck "86 GMC" and there is no question in my mind that it will have a 383 stroker dropped in it.! some guidance please!

[VileZambonie]

Your best bet is to buy a kit. You may need to do some clearance grinding on the block and on the rods. Clearance is the #1 issue. Contact summitracing and they will help you put together a list of parts that will work so you can have an idea of cost less machine work.

[Russ130]

Yes a 350 with a 400 crank is essentially a 383. Problem is 400 cranks are getting hard to come by so you might need to buy a new one. I bought the complete kit from Northern Auto Parts for around $650 which included the crank, pistons, cam, pump, lifters, timing chain, rings , bearings all including cam, gaskets, freeze plugs, valve seals. It probably cost a little more now but that is the easiest way to go for a 383. Remember you will need a 400 damper and flywheel too and it will all have to be balanced. Good luck I think its well worth it.

[2502]

so if you were to get a craigslist special on a block, and started buying stuff from this kit new, what is a realisitc estimate of what it's gonna cost to have one built ready to drop in? i see blocks and parts on craigslist for cheap here all the time and i'm thinking i'm letting good stuff get away, but don't really have the time with all my medical crap right now. i want to get my truck running, so i'm thinking why not get a spare and build that in the meantime til i get my license back... any guesstimates?

[Captkaos]

with the potential machine work and possible damage to a 400 assembly.  you can't be new at $650.

[Russ130]

with the potential machine work and possible damage to a 400 assembly.  you can't be new at $650.

I just looked it up $660.20 with a crank and $446.44 without. Oh and it is new this place doesn't do used and they use a Scat crank which I believe is a cast steel crank.

http://www.northernautoparts.com/ProductModelDetail.cfm?ProductModelId=18798

[Maintenanceman]

I always thought you had to bore the block 0.030 over?

[78 Chevyrado]

I always thought you had to bore the block 0.030 over?

that's true,  with a standard bore (4.00") it's really a 377.  It's commonly a 383 since most of the time you use a used block,  if you used a new block it would be a 377.

[hilton850]

don't forget about making sure you have the right piston/connecting rod combo - shouldn't be an issue in a kit, also need to clearance the rods so they don't hit the cam and also either grind on the rod bolt or the oil pan rail to clear the pan rail.  I think those are the most common problems with putting one together.