440 stock flat top pistons

[RGAZ]

This is probably a dumb question. I have a 71 440 I am assembling and the pistons are flat top (with small notches on one side), can I assume these are the stock pistons? If so, without fully measuring, can we guess at the compression would be? I am pretty sure they are the pistons that came with the block but now I am slightly doubting it. I am basically trying to determine if I should get new pistons if the compression will be 8:1 smog era with these.

Thoughts,
RGAZ

I have been off this forum for a while working on my A-body now I am back on my B.

 

[RJ Squirrel]

I have an 8-1 flat top piston 440 in my Roadrunner. It runs very well on regular pump gas (it is a driver, not a garage queen) and has plenty of power for my cruising around needs. Pretty happy with it.

 

[RGAZ]

I have an 8-1 flat top piston 440 in my Roadrunner. It runs very well on regular pump gas (it is a driver, not a garage queen) and has plenty of power for my cruising around needs. Pretty happy with it.

Stock heads?

I am going aftermarket so I guess I could improve the compression with the head a bit.

 

[RemCharger]

Need to measure either deck height or compression height
Pick your flavor

 

[BSB67]

I have a 71 440 I am assembling and the pistons are flat top (with small notches on one side), can I assume these are the stock pistons?

No, they are not stock pistons.

If so, without fully measuring, can we guess at the compression would be?

No, there is no reasonable guess. These are not factory pistons.

Just get the part number, and measure the compression distance and we can tell you everything you need to know.

 

[RemCharger]

No, they are not stock pistons.

What makes you say that? They should be dished?

 

[BSB67]

He did not say dished. And, With valve notches?

 

[RGAZ]

No, no valve notches, Just small (like 1/4") notches in the corner Likely for piston direction indication. They are totally flat.

 

[PRHeads]

Measure from the top of the piston to the center of the pin.
You’ll need to use something like a caliper to get a fairly accurate number.

 

[RGAZ]

Measure from the top of the piston to the center of the pin.
You’ll need to use something like a caliper to get a fairly accurate number.

I can do that easily tonight. Generally, what kind of numbers am I looking for and how do they correlate?

 

[RemCharger]

He did not say dished. And, With valve notches?

Nor did he say " valve" notches. But I see your position now.