I want to build a motor for my 69 RS Convertible this Winter.
I have a 350 four bolt main and a 400SB available to use.

I am steering towards building the 400SB into a 406. If I do this, is a forged crank worth the investment.
My 400 came with the original crank ground down 10-10.
I have been told that if I want to use nitros that I should buy a forged crank. I do not intent on using nitros but want 400HP out of this motor.
So should I spend the money and get the forged crank or stick with the stock one I have?
Thanks,

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Brother Jrager...I too am in the middle of a 400 SB build. I have the same issues, though I won't be running nitro. Let me know what you decide and why. I'd like to get a forged crank if I can find one priced right, if not I wonder if ol'casty crank will handle 400 poinies.

What are you doing for rods and pistons?

[This message has been edited by Sleepy-69 (edited 12-03-2001).]

[This message has been edited by Sleepy-69 (edited 12-03-2001).]

Well, if it is going to be a "mostly" low RPM cruiser, i would just use the stock crank you have (get it balanced, turned, polished, etc.) On the other hand, you could get one of the SCAT cast steel cranks too. They have a good price on them and would do well for a low RPM street engine

Well, money will be the deciding factor in my 400 build.
The heads is one area that I do not want to skip on.
I will be running a carb and manifold setup and will be doing mostly cruising and some light drag racing.
Everyone wants a fast motor but I want to have one that fits my budget but blows away those nitrous filled Honda's.

I have the stock two barrel 350, original emissions, with 3.08 gears now and the car can barley makes my 195 redlines screech.

I am in the process of installing GlobalWest's suspension and sub frame connectors first.
Once the chase is ready for the power I am going to get a 12 bolt 4.10 then on to the motor.

jrager and Sleepy-69,
I have built a couple pretty cheap but very reliable 400's. The easiest way is with the two bolt block, 5.7 rods that you polish the side of the beams yourself, stock crank, inexpensive forged pistons ($250.00) and get it balanced so you don't have to run the externally balanced flexplate or harmonic balancer. Then get some decent heads, 400 motors like a pretty big intake runner(like 215 or 220 cc) an intake, and cam and you should have a reliable 406 that makes almost 500HP and will be very hard to kill, I've tried.

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SCOTT
69 RS-SS 396 4-SPEED

The cheapest way to get horse power is cubic inch! I would put in a big block!