Advice on a 318 engine build up?

Question

I have a 1983 Dodge Ram Van and I would like to replace the LA V8/ 3 speed trans with a Magnum V8/ 4 speed trans from a truck or van. I would like to keep the original Carter Thermoquad carburetor and intake manifold, but you can't easily adjust the A/F ratio on that carb, and I don't know if or how that could limit any performance upgrades. I'd like the engine to make between 250 and 300 hp. It needs to be an engine that is smooth and streetable, and not something for racing. I was thinking of keeping the stock magnum camshaft, and doing a mild porting job on the heads. I think a big gain in power can be made from a custom exhaust system of tri-Y style tube headers, and that could be expensive, but I also think that it's probably worth the investment, since I plan on keeping this van as long as I can. Would anyone recommend a specific type of camshaft? Or any other advice?

? · Accepted Answer

I think I would go for a 360 for the larger bore as the 3.91 bore of the 318 is very limiting to valve size and flow.  Then I would install a stroker kit to get it up to the 408 cubic inches available that way and use an Edelbrock Performer cam.  Of course, I would add a decent set of headers and dual exhaust.  That should be suitable although one other thing you could do would be to buy a book on how to adjust that Thermoquad.  They are easily adjustable and even more easily to replace with a decent Quadrajet for another Mopar.

chris a t · Answer

Portion.and Polish the heads eldabrock Cam.bore the engine 20 over.Hedman Headers 1inch tubes.

Shaun H-A · Answer

I've got you taken care of with cams.
4 hole carb spacer.
Tighten some things up.

roadrunner426440 · Answer

you don't say what your budget is which would be critical

Advice on a 318 engine build up?

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