The Chevy small-block 350 is an American icon, known for its reliability and potential for serious power upgrades. Whether you're aiming for a mild performance boost or a full-blown race engine, there's a path to significantly increase horsepower. This guide explores various avenues for boosting your 350's output, from simple bolt-ons to more involved engine modifications.
Understanding Your Baseline
Before diving into upgrades, understanding your engine's current state is crucial. Knowing the year of manufacture, carburetor type (if applicable), and any existing modifications will inform your choices. A compression test is a valuable step to assess the health of your engine's cylinders. Low compression indicates potential issues requiring attention before investing in performance upgrades.
Simple and Affordable Upgrades: The Low-Hanging Fruit
These modifications offer noticeable gains without breaking the bank or requiring extensive mechanical expertise.
1. Air Intake System Upgrades: Breathing Easier
Replacing the restrictive stock air intake with a high-flow system, including a performance air filter and possibly a cold air intake, allows for increased airflow into the engine. This simple upgrade can yield a noticeable horsepower increase, along with improved throttle response.
2. Exhaust System Upgrades: Freeing the Flow
A performance exhaust system, featuring headers, a high-flow catalytic converter (where applicable), and a free-flowing muffler, significantly reduces back pressure. This allows for improved scavenging of exhaust gases, leading to increased power and potentially a more aggressive sound. Choosing the right exhaust system depends on your desired sound level and performance goals.
3. Ignition System Upgrades: A Spark of Improvement
Upgrading to a performance ignition system, such as an electronic ignition or a high-output coil, provides a stronger, more consistent spark. This leads to more complete combustion, resulting in increased horsepower and improved fuel efficiency.
Moderate Upgrades: Stepping Up the Power
These modifications require a bit more technical knowledge and investment but deliver substantial horsepower gains.
1. Cam Shaft Upgrade: The Heart of the Engine
Swapping out the stock camshaft for a performance cam with increased lift and duration significantly increases power. However, selecting the right cam is crucial, as it affects the engine's power band and drivability. Consider your intended use – street driving versus racing – when making this choice. This upgrade often necessitates additional adjustments to valve springs and pushrods.
2. Cylinder Head Upgrades: Improved Breathing Efficiency
Performance cylinder heads offer larger valves, improved porting, and potentially higher compression ratios. These modifications allow for significantly greater airflow, leading to a noticeable boost in horsepower. The choice of cylinder head depends on the budget and desired level of performance. Professional machine work might be required for optimal results.
3. Carburetor Upgrades (If Applicable): Fine-tuning Fuel Delivery
If your 350 uses a carburetor, upgrading to a performance carburetor with improved flow characteristics can provide a significant increase in power. Proper carburetor tuning is critical to maximize the benefits and ensure optimal fuel delivery.
Advanced Upgrades: For the Serious Enthusiast
These modifications are best left to experienced engine builders and require a substantial investment. These upgrades can dramatically increase horsepower, often exceeding the limits of the stock bottom end.
1. Stroker Kit: Increasing Displacement
A stroker kit increases the engine's displacement by lengthening the stroke of the crankshaft. This results in a significant increase in torque and horsepower, but it's an involved process requiring precision machining and skilled assembly.
2. Forced Induction: Superchargers and Turbochargers
Adding a supercharger or turbocharger drastically boosts horsepower by forcing more air into the engine. This requires careful consideration of supporting modifications, including fuel system upgrades, upgraded internals, and cooling systems to handle the increased stress.
Conclusion: Tailoring Your Upgrade Path
The path to increased horsepower in your Chevy 350 is highly customizable. Begin with the simple upgrades and gradually progress to more involved modifications as your budget and mechanical expertise allow. Remember to carefully research each upgrade and prioritize proper installation and tuning to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Always consult with experienced mechanics and engine builders for guidance and support, especially when undertaking complex modifications.
