[ImpalaGuy]

Well guys, after 2 years of ownership I've finally got my 383 underway. The plan is a bang-for-the-buck street 383 to liven-up the truck. Right now my tired 350 is probably putting out 150-160HP, and I'm hoping for 350-400 HP out of the 383. Here's the plan:

• 383cid short block ($1300)
• Ported vortec heads (ebay: $700)
• 50mm TBI w/80lb injectors, injector spacer and AFPR ($400)
• Edelbrock Performer RPM vortec intake w/adapter ($200)
• Roller cam from a ZZ4 crate motor (208/221@0.050") ($100)
• Roller lifters, pushrods, retainers ($0, had 'em from an LT1 buildup)
• Afterburner headers ($285)
• 8mm plug wires and Procomp distributor ($125)
• Gaskets: $100

That totals $3200. If history is any indication it will probably be ~$3500 by the time it's done. Here's some pics of what's happening so far...

Here's the freshly assembled 383 short block. I had the block but the pistons and crank are new..




Check out the 4 bolt mains on the bottom. The rods are LT1 ones that I already had...




Vortec heads. Fresh valve job and new springs...




Nice big 2.02" intake and 1.60" exhaust valves. Hard to stuff any bigger ones in there :)




There's power in a good port job. Check out the smooth intake ports in the vortec heads...




And a quick shot of the 50mm throttle body. Overpriced, IMHO, but I need to fuel this beast...




I'll keep you guys posted as the progress continues!