'77 model 440/727

[Texas charger 73]

I have a chance to purchase a '77 model 440/727 combo. Either truck or rv. I currently have a 73 charger with a 318/904 and 8 1/4 rear. I know I will have to upgrade rear end eventually. First off I can get this combo(motor disassembled) for $400. Is that a fair price. Next I would like to push about 300-400 hp without dumping a ton of money. I figure is should be pretty simple. Have heard them are low compression motors. What best way to increase compression? Need something reliable, dependable with a little fun. Car will see no track time.

 

[slepr1]

You will need to change the k-member to a big block k member and heavier tortion bars, imo, thats what I had to do.. Also, depending on your radiator you have now it may be too small for a 440. Best way to increase compression is with different pistons. Unless you are having issues with your 8 1/4 rear, keep it. It can handle your hp.

 

[Texas charger 73]

My radiator is 26",but it's a brand new kws 3 core. As far as k member. There is a company now that makes mounts so you don't have to change wholes member any more. As far as torsion bars they gotta be upgraded eventually anyways. Motor won't go in for a while my 318 is good and strong. This is something I would build over a year or so.

 

[moper]

If it's a truck the engine is pretty much the same as a passenger car's setup except for the exhaust manifolding. If it's an RV (meaning a heavy truck chassis - not the ones based on the B vans) it will be different due to the heads. Not a problem - just syain'. The transmission from a 2wd truck "should" work unless the tailshaft is the heavier unit with the retaining clip access port on the side of the tailhousing. That may hit the floor when used in a passenger car. An RV transmission will have a rear drum for a parking brake - everything from the mainshaft back has to go to make that fit a passenger car - it's easier to get a car transmission if it has that. In terms of power- a camshaft and dual exhaust will get that engine to the level you want. A full rebuild could be done for more $$ but it's not needed for under 400hp. You just need to replace the cam and valve springs, plus some ancillary bolt ons.