upgrade tremec - bell hosuing 351w?

Rickyd · #1 (**permalink**) 12-24-2003, 12:59 PM

I have several questions as I narrow down my engine choices. I am looking into a built 351W - 400ish hp or a 351 stroker -500ish hp.

Do I need to upgrded the 3550 tremec to a tko when moving to the stroker? What about the bellhousing and the clutch?

Also, is there a signifcant gain moving to the stroker? Is it a good Sunday cruiser or is it more temperamental?

thanks

blykins · #2 (**permalink**) 12-24-2003, 01:36 PM

I don't think any extreme high performance engine is a Sunday cruiser...they can be used as such...but if you're into gas mileage and such, then that's not for you. They are streetable though, if that's what you're worried about. My 425ci stroker will idle at 185 degrees all day long...it's great.

As for the tranny, I think a 3550 would be fine if you're not gonna use slicks or drag race it much. It's always wiser to upgrade to a blow-proof bellhousing...just in case...there's not much between you and the clutch disc if it decides it wants to get a better view of the world.

You will notice a great gain....lots of horsepower and lots of torque...especially if you go with a really long stroke.

RPRICE · #3 (**permalink**) 12-24-2003, 03:32 PM

Ricky, 5th gear is useless in these cars. If you plan on the TKO go to the TKO II which gives you a .88 overdrive gear rather than the .6something used in the 3550 and TKO. Which is intirely too low. There is no power reason to go to the TKO with the engines you are looking at. Use the TKO II if you plan on some non interstate highway driving. In the 50-65 mph range for longer trips. You will be happier.

Go with a 392 or 408 stroker. A year from now you will be glad you did. Unless you are a closet drag racer, forget the bellhousing upgrade. And for that matter, forget any single plan intake. From what I can tell from our phone conversation and post this is not the type of driving you will be doing.

Richard
Memphis

Rickyd · #4 (**permalink**) 12-24-2003, 04:46 PM

Blykins adn Richard, thanks for the advice.

Richard, are you saying the 3550 tremec is fine with the engine choices and for decent highway mileage/ RPM's 2200 GET THE TKOII?I plan on using the 3:73 gears.

I'll get the blowproof housing for added protection.

Rick

DC COBRA · #5 (**permalink**) 12-25-2003, 10:53 AM

Ricky, I am at the same decison phase as you. Although my motor will be a Keith Craft all aluminum 427 windsor making estimated 625 horsepower, 610 on torque. The car is a BDR with 3.10 rear gearing,approximate weight is low 2200 pounds. Everybody I talk with says to go with the TKO or TKOII. There is not that much difference between the TKO and the 3550. Has anybody in the same situation actually broke a 3550, using it as a weekend warrior, cruiser. moderate abuser on the street? Will a 3550 hold up behind this type of setup? All info greatly appreciated.