383 question

[hashmaker]

I have only had 440s or a Hemi all with Steel crankshafts. What did the 383s come with for a crankshaft?

 

[BSB67]

I think everything through 1970 was forged steel. I’m not sure about the years that followed.

 

[69 Sleeper Bee]

If I remember correctly they went to cast cranks in late 71 but were all forged before that.

 

[RemCharger]

In the 2bbls

 

[Vaanth]

I have only had 440s or a Hemi all with Steel crankshafts. What did the 383s come with for a crankshaft?

The 383 engine used a forged steel crankshaft in all applications until 1970. The cast iron crankshaft was introduced in the 383 in 1970 and continued in 1971 in some two barrel applications.

The following two images show the Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) describing the change:

 

[Lefty71]

Considering the number of years 383's were made, and the sheer number produced (the most popular big block by far, IIRC), that makes the cast crank version a big minority. Forged 383 cranks should be pretty easy to find.

 

[BSB67]

Small minority?

 

[jimbosride]

Sorry I don't want to hijack the post but .......

When building my 383 I was told most all 383 cranks were drilled for 4sp transmission.

Is that true ?

 

[RemCharger]

Sorry I don't want to hijack the post but .......

When building my 383 I was told most all 383 cranks were drilled for 4sp transmission.

Is that true ?

View attachment 1859551

No, it's hit and miss. As they say, " stick your finger in the hole, you'll know"

 

[hashmaker]

Great information you guys, thanks

 

[Mopar Hunter]

Which one is better/stronger, a forged steel or a cast iron crankshaft?

 

[66 Sat]

Which one is better/stronger, a forged steel or a cast iron crankshaft?

Forged Steel.