[Chevelle-list] 396 Build

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I agree with Clint and RJ. I had my 386 built by the local speed shop. The goal was to keep it a budget project and to keep the HP somewhere in the 350-400 range. Being able to use pump gas is critical if you want this to be a daily driver. I'd drop that compression ratio down to 9.5 if I were you, to be safe.   Stick with the oval port heads, a moderate hydraulic cam is all you need, and an Edelbrock intake is a cheap but good improvement.  The big block will have more torque than probably most cars you ever rode in...unless you hang around a bunch of racers. It will get you plenty of power, but will not be cheap at the gas pump.   I added a few "nice to haves" like a larger chrome oil pan, and roller rockers and a custom balancer. By the time I was through I had a price tag of over $4000 out of the rebuilt. This didn't include all the external stuff like water pump, alternator and pulleys.   If I had it to do over again, I'd probably look at a crate 383.stroker. In the long run it will be a lot cheaper (gas, parts etc.) and have most of the power.                                              Steve ----- Original Message ----- From: RJ Winkler Hey guys,             I got my big block and its being machined for my 69.  I was wondering what setups you guys choose if you’ve built a 396 and how much it cost.  I’m looking for a street setup that makes some good hp (350 to 400) with an economy price tag (17 year old).  Big questions are rectangle port or oval for the heads and what are the good years or good ids, what type pistons (looking for around 10 to 1 compression), what kind of cam, and what years/engine used the same 396 crank?  What parts are safe to buy used and what to buy new? Thanks for all your help -RJ