Cost Analysis: SC vs 347 rebuild..opinions, what am I missing?

[Davin]

Okay, I have always thought that once my engine got enough miles, I would rebulid it with a 347 stroker. Now that I'm starting to price this out, I realize that on top of the 347 crate block (or kit with rebuild of my existing) I also have to look at porting and increasing the valve size on my heads, getting a new balancer, possible larger oil pan, upper intake, larger air filter, radiator?, etc.

The other day I saw that vortech got a new S-Trim super charger for 94's that I can get for about $2400. I'm starting to wonder if it wouldn't be easier/cheaper just to have my old block rebuilt and bored to 306, using the stock cranck, replace the stock pistons and rods, and install the SC myself.

My goal is a car with minimum 400rwhp that can be fun to drive on the street and my never see a drag strip (or seldom). My cam in an AFM and I'm told its pretty SC friendly.

Thoughts on cost, drivability, etc? Enjoyment of SC vs 347?

Thanks

 

[Grn92LX]

How many miles on your current engine? After you pay for all the machining and stuff for a 306, you'll quickly realize its not much more to make it a 347. You still NEED pistons, rings, all bearings, all machining, gotta have the stock rods/crank checked if reusable.

On the other hand, a supercharged h/c/i 347 is VERY risky with cracking the block.

Do you want a fast n/a combo or do you want a blower? 400rwhp on a stroker is easy with the right parts.

What is your budget?

 

[Davin]

my current engine has 133K miles.

As far as whether I prefer NA or blower, I guess that I don't really know the characteristics of one vs the other to tell, I've never driven a SC car. As far as the budget goes, there is no dollar figure, but the sky is not the limit. I want to be penny wise, but not so much that I'd sacrifice durability for cheaper parts.

I guess I am wondering if getting the heads ported, having larger valves installed, and getting other needed components like balancer and oil pan, intake, etc, could really be that much cheaper than a blower. Blower just seemed like there was less I'd need to fool with. For informational purposes, I do have a TwEECer to, so I can turn either setup.

 

[2000xp8]

You'll find the car will be just as fast with the 347 and much more reliable.

My buddy just ran an 11.20 at 124 with a 1.7 60ft with a NA 347 . Runs like it came from the factory.
A blown head gasket is less likely to happen.

I see all types of modified mustangs on a daily basis, and the ones that take the beating without damage are always NA.

Many similar combos come from the same shop as the one i mentioned above.

If you do the 347 and you feel it's not enough you can always add the supercharger later.

BTW, i believe if you look into the 05 FMS catalog, the forged version of the sportman blocked 347 is around $2800.

The non forged is $2200 and is definetely adequate for most applications.

Edit:
Now that i see you have 133k miles, forget the charger, you'll be burning and leaking oil in no time.