383build

Hi All,

I am a new member and I wanted to get some information from you all.

I am currently in the beginning phases of my first classic car restoration. When I say beginning I mean I haven't even chosen the car I will restore.

I currently am leaning toward a 67-69 Dodge Dart being powered by a 340, 383, or 440.

My only previous experience with classic/muscle cars was a 1966 Ford Fairlane GTA (which I loved but sold it) The problem with it was how tight the engine bay was for various engine mods.

Questions:

1. Will any/all of the aforementioned engines fit in the Dart without problem? Is header clearance a problem?

2. Which motor do you recommend? (I'm leaning toward the 383)

3. Is there anything particular I should look for when purchasing a car/roller?

The intended purpose of the car will be cruising, date nights, and the occasional trip to the drag strip with a goal of somewhere between 11 and 12 seconds.

Thank you all in advance for your help and input!
Seth

RacerHog

Seth..... Just like all of them.... The bigger you go, The tighter it is... But yes.. Those engine do fit. It is better to start off with a known Big Block car of course. these have the rite front torsion rated bars and rite k-member for the engine without having to change it and what knots.
I would suggest you go to a couple of mopar shows or gatherings and look them over before you pull the trigger... Mopars are of the unique club and not for everyone to build. but if you love a challenge, and enjoy standing out in a crowd... It's like driving a thunderbolt car with a 4 gear....

Just my 2 cents
keep us posted

Coronet 500

Welcome Seth.

If your set on an A Body that`s good. The engine choice today gets more difficult.

Smallblock, easy fit and easy stroked to 408 with lots of power.

Bigblock, low deck 400, good fit, easy stroke to 451+ with tons of power.

I would stay away from the RB 440, very tight.

If I bought one, before it got a powerful engine I`d tie the frames, move the springs in and mini tub, just to get that stuff out of the way. Even if I drove it around with a 2bbl 318 until I had my A1 engine ready. Oh , and fuel system improvements while your doing all the dirty work.