F Bodies

Since we have moved, and the 72 is sitting on the body dolly that we built, the thoughts and realization that I can start work on the Vette again is making me very happy. I intend to finish up the underneath and have the suspension back in over the fall.
But the big question is, should I go for a BB or SB? I have always wanted a BB and the 454 HO seems very appealing. But then I would also enjoy ZZ430 built by one of the GM Performance dealers.
I am putting a 3.70 rear in regardless of what engine I choose. And will use either a 700 or 200R4 depending on which one is best for what engine. Would also like to know how much of a change would it be for a BB?
So, if you had a choice, what would it be???
Appreciate all of your comments and suggestions!!!

Thanks.................................. .....................................Tom :chevy

Robert N

Gonna get burned on this one.....I like small blocks. Lighter, better on gas, easier to find parts. There are some very potent SBs out there. For total torque and power - BB.

my .02

vip3r

I say go with what you have allways wanted. I have allways wanted a BB so I got a BB.



[Modified by vip3r, 12:22 PM 8/31/2002]

stingraynick75

I too have a BB/SB question posted and the rule of thumb is "there is no subsitute for cubic inches" :cheers:

BB wowbagger

Everyday driving=Smallblock
Weekend Warrior=BigBlock
:cheers: :cheers:

Bob Turner

BB!!! I am starting my sb to BB in September!!!!!! :cool:

I do like the big cubic inch (427-434) small blocks though. BUT, I want to see that monster motor in my '74!!

Bob :cheers:

JoeC427

:cool:

JoeZ

Just my opinion, but smallblock. Reason: fuel effeciency.
With a small block you can still make mad HP (supercharger helps!) and have reasonable gas milage (get a fuel injected engine like LS1, or put TPI on it yourself). I'm looking into doing this very thing.

Fuel Effecience + Horsepower = one BAD engine :) :)

mrvette

MY choice, SB, BB is great for tow cars....what you plan on towing with your vette??? now for a weekend warrier even then a BB is too much...
reason...tires/differentials/suspensions/1/2 shafts not to mention overdrive trannies will NOT last well....especially with slicks, so then what's the point of the BB?? breaks everything loose.....and engine for engine will allways be nose heavy.....
not to mention the SB has all the injections you would ever want available and cheap....try getting a BB inj. setup....
I presume you will drive the car some...otherwise why bother??? unless your last name is Rockefeller, you may want to double your fuel economy without cost you 5 grand to do it....

;your car, your decision, obviously....depends on what you want....those are MY considerations....

GENE

:D :D :D :eek: :eek: :cool:

F Bodies

Thanks to everyone who has responded so far!!! Some very interesting thoughts have been raised to really take into consideration. I know that people always say tha BB "rule" and I can't argue with that. And I also agree that SB's will give better fuel numbers. I know that I don't want to be breaking parts in the rear, although everything is rebuilt or new and ready to be installed. There is just something about seeing a BB under the hood!!! But on the other hand, as has been stated, with a SB you also obtain better handling. So much to think about!!!!
Decisions decisions....will have to weigh out the pro's & con's of each.
thanks again..................................T om :D :D

Jvette73

Well built sb is a very good performer. sb is as good on the top end. Vettes are generally top end cars. bb has big tq and can get you out of the hole with neck snapping force. If you get a well built bb to hook up good, youll probably start breakin stuff like half shafts and u joints. Costs big money to have a vette irs drive train built to withstand serious bb tq.

Fevre

Maybe some forum members in your area with good bb and built sb can let you test drive them or at least take you for a spin.

pingdashf

Small Block all the way. My only question is WHICH small block?!? A supercharged 350 would be a lot of fun, but I don't like the idea of having a hole in my hood. Maybe a 383 with a NOS package? Who knows. When you decide I know where to get a good one built :)

joevette57

Easy choice...... one of each :smash: :smash: :smash:

RatRacer

A new crate 502 is the way to go if you have the budget. It will bolt in with minimal fuss.

INTIMIDATOR ZO6

:seeya If it's not going to be driven daily go "Big Block" :D

Monty

Who needs a big block...

Corey_68

John Force :p:

j/k :D

PRNDL

My 2 fantasy projects:

72 LT1 modern clone, with LT1 hood, badges and modern LT1 engine,
and,
69 ZL1 clone with ZL1 paint job, sidepipes, L88 hood, and modern crate engine....either a ZZ502 or new GMPP even bigger crate engine....
so... take your pick! :) MJ

Disco_Mike

my father built and dirt track raced SB's in the 60's and 70's so, im partial to the SB