440 engine swap

[Matrix2]

I realize this is not a new topic, but I am planning to transplant a crate 440 into my 69 roadrunner with a 383 and A833 tranny. I know that as the RB block has a higher deck height, new exhaust headers and also a new intake manifold is necessary, and the 440 crank needs to be drilled for the pilot bushing, but what other issues might I expect? The rest of the car is basically stock. Thanks, guys!

 

[Ductman]

I have a 383 4sp car also and want to go with a hemi. I'll be watching your thread to see If I can learn anything. So what's the info on the 440?

 

[super-bee_ski]

I have a 383 4sp car also and want to go with a hemi. I'll be watching your thread to see If I can learn anything. So what's the info on the 440?

Ductman,
I have performed the 383 SWAP to a HEMI on my 1970 Superbee.

 

[Speedbird]

I would hope that your crate 440 is already drilled. Forged crank?
You know that most later 440s had a cast crank which was not drilled.
And my understanding is that drilling a cast crank can be done, but it's not a good idea.
Your 383 should be a forged crank and internally balanced like a forged 440.
If you don't get a forged 440 with internal balancing you will also to do something about your fly wheel.
What that is, is a big question.

 

[Matrix2]

I would hope that your crate 440 is already drilled. Forged crank?
You know that most later 440s had a cast crank which was not drilled.
And my understanding is that drilling a cast crank can be done, but it's not a good idea.
Your 383 should be a forged crank and internally balanced like a forged 440.
If you don't get a forged 440 with internal balancing you will also to do something about your fly wheel.
What that is, is a big question.

Thanks for the reminder about the internal balancing. Yes, getting a forged crank as it will be drilled for the pilot bushing. I have been told that it is possible to drill the cast crank, and that the cast is sufficiently strong for a mild build.

 

[Photon440]

Early forged and later 4406bbl forged also had different balance. But Matrix2, if your exhaust doesn't have an h or x pipe, and the pipes are separate from each other then you probably won't have any trouble putting the 383 exhaust on the 440 with no changes. If there is a center connection, then of course it won't work because the heads are farther apart.