How to Rebuild and Modify Chevy 348, 409 Engines

If you want to rebuild or modify your 1958-1965 Chevy 348 or 409 "W" big-block motor, this new book by John Carollo is the guide you'll want to have by your side. Whether you want to restore your engine to factory specs or the plan is to build a high-performance motor, Carollo shows you the way, actually literally, with hundreds of sharp B&W photos. The aftermarket is also discussed in detail so you can choose the best parts for your particular application. Note: This manual is a print on demand by the publisher and thus has black and white photos and diagrams. It's harder to get; however, we keep this manual in stock and offer Free and Fast Shipping to our continental US48 customers.

Book Excerpt

ENGINE BLOCK

The good news about 348 and 409 blocks is there were more than 18 different Chevrolet W-engine factory blocks built from 1958 to 1965. The bad news is that most were built more than 50 years ago and are showing their age, and many original blocks have been rebuilt several times. On top of that, rebuildable 409 blocks are hard to find and getting more expensive all the time. Original 409s are highly coveted and a decent block often sells for about $5,000 while the 348s are much more abundant and often go for about $1,500 in rebuildable condition. If you're restoring an Impala or another Chevy car or truck with a rebuildable block, you already have the foundation for your engine build. But if you're looking for an engine to build, old iron blocks are not the only option. Companies, such as World Products and Bob Walla Racing, offer new aluminum blocks based on the original W. Certainly, if you're considering a high-performance build of 550 hp or more, an aftermarket aluminum block provides far more strength and has many enhanced features that are covered in this chapter. Therefore, these blocks are a far more reliable and cost-effective alternative for a high-performance build. If you opt for an original block most dedicated W enthusiasts can find a useable one for building a 348 or 409, but it may take some time and patience. The trick is to know what you're looking at when you do find one. And if you cannot find a sound OEM 348 or 409 block for your engine build, aluminum aftermarket blocks are available, and these blocks are ideal for a max-performance build.

Subject: Learn how to rebuild a Chevy "W" Big-Block motor. Covers Chevy 348 and 409 engines. ISBN-10: 1613254687 | ISBN-13: 9781613254684 | CarTech SA210P