There are many different engine combos that work just fine in many styles of trucks. But for our purposes, the smaller combos will be left out. Stock V-6's work fine in stock Toyota's and Nissans, but that is not what this site is about.
We will only deal with the REAL engines. The Small and Big Block V-8's. Rule of thumb: You can never have too much power, as long as you know how to control it. And with that in mind, remember, there is NO SUSTITUTE for Cubic Inches. Yes, I know, the Chevy 350CI is a GREAT motor. Yes, a well-prepped 350 will blow a stock 454 away. But look at it this way: You are trying to power a 5,000+lb. truck with 44" tires that needs it true muscle in the 1,200 to 4,000 RPM range. About $1,500 will get you a stock 454 with 400+lbs of Torque while a 350 would cost at least twice that if not triple to get the same results. Plus, the 350 must be wound up tight to get that power, which shortens lifespan greatly!
On the street, small blocks are great, when buried in 5 ft. of mud, big blocks rule. No questions about it. But we can't always have everything we want so, if you have a smooth running 350, be proud of it and get the most you can from it.
As far as engine types, Ford Vs. Chevy, that comes down to personal preference. I have my favorites, but they are mine, not yours. I have been through many, many engines before. Almost every breed they come in. I have blown Chevies and Fords both. Word to the wise: The 454CI and the 460CI are both great motors. They are strong, tough, popular, available and fairly cheap to modify or repair. The 396's, 400's, 402's, 427's, 428's, 429's, etc. are great motors too, but not designed for Off-Road Abuse. They have a habit of exploding when put under stress, like a 25' long Mudhole!
Whatever your choice, remember: The Bigger, the Badder! |
