My new stock stroke 400 build

[Don Frelier]

Trust you to bust my balls Don! I had to replace the old group 24 battery which had no reserve. My buddy with the parts store sold me this battery which he said was the one with the most CCA. I think the original application is some kind of Ford product. It is quite a bit longer and a bit wider than the old battery, but actually about an inch shorter. I had to rebend the retaining ears on the hold down and yes I will have to shorten the J bolts.

I'm here most days...

 

[qkcuda]

I took the Charger out for an extended drive today. I got a chance to nail it from a dead stop. When I tried with the 361 it would stall dead. This time not only did it not stall, but I actually spun the tire (2.94 open rear end). It pulled strongly but shifted early at about 4000 rpm. It takes a while to wind out with those gears. I have a tach fix on the way, and then I will be able to safely wind it a little tighter. Overall I am pleased with how the new combination (engine, trans, converter) acts. As I mentioned before I love the new street manners. I don't spend a lot of time at full throttle anyway. I will try and get to the drag strip soon just for my own satisfaction. There may be a switch to a 3.23 sure grip over the winter if I can find one for a reasonable price.

 

[440 4 speed]

I believe I found the problem with the rad, obviously user error when I was wrestling the fan into place. I am going to find something tomorrow to patch it temporarily and add some leak stop. After this weekend show I will pull it out and have it repaired or recored.

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I think my father used pepper back in the old days. Apparently it worked.