I didn't intend to replace the engine with the intent of going over 350 hp. I bought the super coupe motor from a friend cheap when the mild n/a motor started knocking. Oddly enough from being started too infrequently of all things. It should have just been about 270 hp and was a relatively fresh rebuild. I took it apart to freshen the gaskets and noticed some odd wear patterns in the bearings and bores. My machinist said the rebuilder was a hack so I decided to install the rebuild kit I was saving for my super coupe.
I had the 20 over Diamond pistons coated so that we could just put a fresh hone on the block and use file fit Total Seals. I had him modify the mains to accept ARP studs and a 94/95 windage tray. I had a CMRE stage 2 cam and bought new motorsport 302R lifters. I had a set of heads that I got in a package deal but they too were a butcher job. The guy who installed the studs either used a crappy drill press or somehow damaged the threads. Once torqued in place, you could wobble them with your finger. I had my guy install new stainless 1 inch inserts and I purchased Chevy ARP aluminum head studs cut down to about 1.2 inches. I bought the split pushrod guides Comp makes and my brother tig welded them together when they were properly set. Heads are majorly welded and ported with titanium 1.96" Int and 1.65" exhaust sitting on alloy seats and bronze guides. I used Comp beehive springs, titanium 10 degree retainers and titanium lock. With the Scorpion 1.7 rockers, final lift is about .570.
I also had Comp seamless pushrod and a Meling high volume pump and modified 4.2 truck pan. I modified the oil pickup to allow for a greater draw. My brother is filling in the intake so that I can port it and modifying the inlet elbow for better flow and to allow a front mount to hook up better. I haven't bough one yet as I am not sure which is better. I have the usual bolt ons. Overdrive jackshaft and blower pulleys, underdrive for accessories, 85mm MP throttle body and MPX blower, 85mm C&L maf.
I guesstimate about 200 hp more than the original