350 Engine Build Part Two - Tech Project -Lowrider Magazine

Last month, we showed you how the Comp Cams retro valve train setup was an easy add-on that will allow the engine to operate like a modern small-block straight from the dealer. This month, Jerry at Ace Machine in Riverside, California, finished the 383-c.i.d. engine build and topped it off with accessories from Milodon, Professional Products, Demon Carburetor and RHS.

This engine build was too complex to try to show you what Jerry did all at once, so we opted to present it in two parts, which gave us enough space to actually show you some dyno time. These engines can be built fairly easily, but tuning is most important; a few minor adjustments can make a world of difference. So when we were offered a chance to get on that dyno, we were ready to roll.

This engine build got interesting when Comp Cams offered us the opportunity to dyno their products on a new GM Performance 290-c.i.d. crate engine block that was designed to produce about 295 horsepower. On the first run, our combination gave us about 370 horsepower. By the time that Steve of Westech Performance Group in Ontario, California, got his hands on it, this small-block was pushing better than 400 horsepower just by being tuned! Now follow along as we show you how this Comp Cams build came together.

1. These are just a few of the things used for this 383 engine build.
2. A Milodon oil pan system was used for this engine as it helps keep the pressure at the right level.
2. A Milodon oil pan system was used for this engine as it helps keep the pressure at the
3. The oil pump was ready to be bolted.

4. A Milodon high-volume pump was installed.
5. With most engine builds like this one, you'll need to refurbish or install a new oil filter adapter for the oil filter.
5. With most engine builds like this one, you'll need to refurbish or install a new oil fi
6. This oil splash pan will help you keep the oil from "washing" when taking sharp turns or hopping.
6. This oil splash pan will help you keep the oil from "washing" when taking sharp turns o

7. You can see the splash pan floating and the tolerances and clearance that it will have after it's been installed.
7. You can see the splash pan floating and the tolerances and clearance that it will have
8. Once the pan was checked for clearance, it was bolted down to keep it from coming loose.
8. Once the pan was checked for clearance, it was bolted down to keep it from coming loose
9. Here's a look at the 6-quart pan and the stock pan. The aftermarket pan sits lower and it holds more fluid for better cooling.
9. Here's a look at the 6-quart pan and the stock pan. The aftermarket pan sits lower and

10. The splash pan comes in two pieces; this one sits under the oil pump to ensure that the oil stays down.
10. The splash pan comes in two pieces; this one sits under the oil pump to ensure that th
11. This rear main seal is thicker and designed to keep all of the pressure from slipping out.
11. This rear main seal is thicker and designed to keep all of the pressure from slipping
12. This rear main seal is thicker and designed to keep all of the pressure from slipping out.
12. This rear main seal is thicker and designed to keep all of the pressure from slipping