Engine Guru's... please, step inside

[Repostyle]

Well, I was going to post this here General Automotive Forums - Other Auto Tech at StangNet but that get's maybe 2 posts a month. I need to be ready for race season 2011. So, sorry for this, but it's a chevy question...

I have a small block 350 in my 1/4 mi dirt oval car. It's .030 but the rest is a stock 4 bolt. I have to stick with the stock cast heads and a 2 brl carb. What can I do to get the best torque exiting the corners and top end at the end of the straits. Should I go 383? keep in mind I'm trying to stick to my $500 budget the best I can.

The 350 in it now is strong and competitive, but it's not a first place engine. I just need a little more to keep up and possibly move to the front.

 

[Rick 91GT]

What trans are you running, what gear do you keep it in.... Whats the 350 out of?

Im working with a local dirt racer in a very limited local v8 class, was running the FWD class.

 

[Repostyle]

I run 2nd gear with a 3 speed auto, both motor and trans are out of a 72 gmc truck. I don't remember what trans it is. I plan on running a power glide when the funds allow it.

 

[stykthyn]

Gearing possibly?

 

[Repostyle]

Gearing possibly?

It's already got 410's. If I go anymore it won't have any speed at the end of the straights without shifting, and if it does shift it will loose it's acceleration.

I'm pretty sure the rest of the drivetrain is where it should be aside from a powerglide, I'm just wondering if I should just rebuild and get more power that way or get even more from a 383. Would it be worth it? I should be running about 12:1 compression so if I go 383 do I need 5.7 or 6" rods? Should I go dome or flat top pistons? Should I go off the shelf aftermarket cam or get a custom grind?

 

[stykthyn]

If you are looking to squeeze everything out of the engine I would go with a custom ground cam and if rules allow you to stroke why not take that as far as possible?