454 Big Block Engine - Budget Stomper

There was no need to purchase a high-zoot oil pump-a stock one was more than up to task to perform in our mill. After a quick test-fit and wash, we placed the gaskets and seals with sealant and bolted the Pace Performance pan to seal the rotating assembly.

For lifters, we opted for a set of Comp's solid lifters at $114. Let's face it, they're relatively cheap and easy to install, and they'll last forever. We put a dab of prelube on each lifter and slid them into each lifter bore.

For heavy breathing, we ordered a complete set of RHS aluminum 320cc-runner big-block cylinder heads (spring rates, 2.250/1.880-inch, intake/exhaust) for a flat-tappet cam. Take note: If the budget doesn't allow it, RHS also offers a complete set of iron heads that will flow the same. We should mention that since stock blocks run their bolt holes through the water jackets, we wrapped our ARP bolts with Teflon tape to ensure a tight seal. To torque the heads, we worked in a clockwise center-out pattern, torquing first to 45 ft-lb then to 75 ft-lb.

We added a dab of assembly lube to each end of the pushrods to prevent the rockers and pushrods from getting a dry startup. Tickling the valves, we used a set of Comp Cams 31/48-inch pushrods, 8.680 inch intake/9.740 inch exhaust. After a quick solvent rinse, we held them up to the light, looking through them to make sure there wasn't any debris inside. This is crucial because the pushrods serve as part of the oiling system, feeding oil to the rockers; should the pushrods become obstructed, the rocker could seize up under friction.

Up top, we used a set of Scorpion 1.7:1 rocker arms. We then set the rockers on the studs and lashed the valves to 0.016/0.016. If you aren't sure how to lash valves, be sure to check out our Jan. '08 Step By Step to refresh your memory.

The Edelbrock single-plane will match well with the 236/242 cam and help upper-rpm air movement. However, when we put this big-block on the street, expect to see a dual-plane manifold for around-town driveability. To plant the manifold, we spread sealant around the water ports and on the lifter valley walls, placed the intake gasket down, and torqued the manifold with ARP bolts at about 30 ft-lb.