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#660695 07/08/2010 12:59 PM
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 20
D
New Guy
New Guy
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My neighbor has a stock SBC 400 that I could get from him but I don't know to much about them. Can anyone here give me some advice on if this engine would be good for my '84 3/4 ton that I want to use primarily for hauling my other projects around with? The truck currently has a Turbo 400 tranny. Thanks, Chris


Herbie - 1957 GMC
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 150
S
Shop Shark
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Posts: 150
Looks like a bolt-in to me...... Is the SBC 400 in good running condition or does it need rebuild? If it needs rebuild, I would keep looking for a good running motor (a 350 would also be great)or buy a GM crate 350 for around $2K.

Good luck

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'Bolter
'Bolter
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The 400 SB is a good reliable engine. I have heard about some issues with overheating. If you have a good cooling system you should have no problems.
Fred


1956 3100 Pickup/Red/350/3sp OD/PS/Disc Brakes
1957 Bel Air Sport Coupe/Red/355/TH350/PS/Disc Brakes
2017 Silverado LT Single Cab SB/Black/5.3/6 Speed Trans
1947 Willys CJ2A w/F-Head engine
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5
'Bolter
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400 SBC are externally balanced. Make sure you get the flex plate or flywheel that goes to that engine.

Brian


Brian
1955.2 3100 Truck
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6
'Bolter
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I ran a SB 400 in my old '63 for years with no problems. Like 55 Shaker said, make sure you get the Flexplate that goes with that specific SB 400 because they are externally balanced.

You should have no trouble bolting it up to your TH400. That's the tranny I had in the '63 as well.


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W
Riding in the Passing Lane
Riding in the Passing Lane
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Good strong engines. The harmonic balancer is different also.


They say money can't buy happiness. It can buy old Chevy trucks though. Same thing.
1972 Chevy c10 Cheyenne Super
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Shop Shark
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I had a new 78 Chev with a 400SB and a TH400. Very powerful, ran great and had no cooling issues. Bored out 350's with the 400 crank have had some cooling problems due to the thinner cylinder walls I'm told.


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Dave
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Kettle Custodian (pot stirrer)
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Don't over-rev it, about 5500 or below is plenty of RPM. Make sure you keep it cool, good radiator and water pump, hoses, etc. 400's do not like to be overheated!
Jerry


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Thanks for all the advice. From what I've heard sounds like the 400 will work well for my application. Looks like I'm gonna finally get a good engine for my truck. Now all I gotta do is drop it in and start hooking everything up. Thanks again. Chris


Herbie - 1957 GMC

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