Small Block Chevy 400 MAXED on the Dyno - Velocity Stack Tested

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Thanks to all our patient Chevrolet fans who have waited so long for this one.. and the one to come after this one. The Mopar master is putting on a bowtie today, in Nick's Garage.

[@nickpanaritis4122]

Yes, I agree with all you guys. But then again, who drives a car with a velocity stack on their engines, very rare.

[@BuzzLOLOL]

Yes... we'd put a scoop on top of the stack... LOL!

[@GJ-DT]

Lol, the only 1 i know that drives around with a velocity stack is david freiburger. Anyhoo, its awesome that you find the time to respond to our monday morning quarterbacking comments. You and your videos are great! Keepem comin and i hope you find a way to makeup for lost sleep.

[@thedon3836]

This is true not vary many.

[@CC-xs1hh]

The stacks seem more of something from past, and yes you right, hardly no one runs them, HOWEVER, nothing looks better than a 55 chevy gasser with two 4's with velocity stacks (any gasser) .

[@Hot80s]

the worst were those velocity stacks with a foam filter & retainer screen, they were horseshit, same for those awful triangular foam filters, clean or dirty they always messed up my motor's performance

[@dualdanman816]

I had a 1970 nova with a 400 small block ,,that baby would burn the tires and go like a bat out of hell..awesome engine. Wish I still had it

[@Australia-ky7kx]

The great thing about Nick's videos there is real time testing. Figures don't lie and we benefit from his experience.

[@phoenixarizona8441]

Nick is awesome people I've met him a few times

[@iwrenchbluecollar7498]

The 400 was a beast. It got a bad wrap due to over heating. The Siamese cylinder design due to the larger bore and having steam ports in the heads caused them to be heat sensitive. Not an engine you want to neglect the cooling system in. Can't wait to see the perty pink big block roar!

[@maynardreed4036]

Glad to see someone finally running a 400sb. Keep up with videos I enjoy them.

[@jessicawells5145]

I had one built on a super budget, one of the best small blocks I've ever owned.

[@smallblockchev64]

Hey Nick, thanks for thinking of us Chevy guys. Love your channel!!

[@NicksGarage]

We don’t discriminate, here at Nick’s Garage.

[@tracybrowner5121]

​@@NicksGaragewhat is that set, & what will be the best supercharger for this engine also,Building a 400 for S10.. looking for some expert advice. Spend hard earned money so be honest. I love that about your show

[@disturbedmaynard3873]

Dyno testing a Chevy, and I still watched. The power of Nick's Garage....

[@GrowthCurveMarketing]

Nick knows Nick wrenches Nick explains Nick welcomes Nick cares And now we know that Nick PARTIES! It's like Aristotle came back, learned about engines, and has devoted his life to teaching it to us.

[@nickpanaritis4122]

Growth C. M. Nick Thanks.

[@daxtonbrown]

People run the 383 which is a 400 crank with a 350 bore because of the beter water cooling. The 400 cylinders are siamesed together. So it is interesting to see a true 400 dynoed. Thanks Nick

[@timglassford2793]

Orient the velocity stack so that the bar in side does not cross over the venturies. Line it up to go across from left to right.

[@woolyhighlander7280]

The Machine shop that done the actual engine work is the real hero !

[@NicksGarage]

They do fine work.

[@cactuscanuck6802]

Big blocks are always great, but there's something special about large displacement small blocks... they rumble big yet scream at the same time. My former neighbor has a 67 Barracuda (318 car) and he dropped in a modern Chrysler 408 SB crate engine. First time I heard it rumbling I almost couldn't believe that I was looking at a bored/stroked 360 pushing out close to 500 lb-ft!! So sweet!

[@tscooter22]

As usual, I'm giving a thumbs up before watching the video. They are all great! This is one of the very few things I look forward to on Monday mornings. :-)

[@johnmavros6382]

My favorite is you testing engines, could watch that all day Nick

[@jb1765]

I ran a lot of 400 sb’s on the street. A good cam and four barrel- you could smoke some ass with that motor. They are very strong.

[@kainhall]

have one in my aunts (rip) 68 impala 2 door.... keeps up with my dads 440 72 satellite for the first block.... then bought a 77 pickup i was told had a 305.... stock 400 to the truck is what it turned out to be LOVE that 400 in that 700 the 68 is a little cranky for a daily.... but that stocker is a WORK HORSE.... pulls hard and at low rpm

[@Backyardmech1]

I’ve seen a 69’ Firebird convertible with one of these engines run like a scalded ape. They’re no joke for a small block if built right.

[@19jody72]

Jb 1 small block weight with big block power!

[@TheCheapReefer]

used to stroke these to 421s they would run 10s all motor with proper setup

[@WarJakEnterprises]

If you go with longer rods, such as 5.7 or 6.0 it turns into a real torque monster! A guy I knew back in the 80s had a 400 bored .030, 5.7 rods, 2.05 intake/ 1.60 exhaust valves, .680 lift roller Lunati cam, final compression ratio of 12.7 to 1, 830 cfm carb & strip dominator intake. Don't remember the peak power, but it was between 600 & 700 HP @ 5800 RPM. Turbo 350, 4500 stall, 5:13 gears, do 9:90 all day long on VP fuel in a 72 Nova sleeper. People would look at it & laugh, but we would always get the last laugh.

[@Wheel-1]

Always look forward to New videos ! You guys Rock ! 400 SB Oh yeah .

[@heathersanborn4914]

Shouldn't the stud bracket be parallel to the body of the carb not diagonally across the ports ? Maby it was inhibiting the flow? GREAT GUY GREAT CREW GREAT CHANNEL! ps love the IROC !

[@keith38able]

ditto and the stack makes the carb need to rejet richer

[@chuckfults9256]

i would thin that bracket out some too along with being parallel just sayin

[@CamaroRick]

@@chuckfults9256 Thought the same thing! Should remove the bar and weld it in vertical with a tube welded in the center for the stud. But at a minimum I would have tried to line it up between the barrels. Looks like its covering the rear left and front right.

[@chuckfults9256]

maybe 2 clips on the outside to clamp to the air horn lip?

[@curly27784]

I noticed that too. I don't think velocity stacks do anything for a static engine. For them to work there has to be air flowing across the top of the stack. Nick should make one more pull with a high velocity fan on a stand in front of the engine to simulate the engine in a moving car and sticking out of the hood.

[@truth4wtc752]

Finally a 400 small block,... my favorite motor of all time,... a perfect upgrade for that F-Body that happened to roll in...lol!

[@Rampant_Colt]

the 400 sb doesn't get much play. Kind of an overlooked engine

[@Shade_tree_garage01]

The 400 takes more money to build, it overheats easily, it has thin walls, it’s not overlooked, it’s just a bad design for the SBC to go over the 4.000 bore like that. Yes they’re great performers yada yada yada, they’re not as reliable

[@PeterJr1985]

Definitely have to have a good cooling system but torquey little engine's.

[@stoveboltlvr3798]

I had one .030 over to make a 406 in my 63 chevy II. It had a 4 core that kept it pretty cool. I like the 400 also.

[@joejackson9172]

No. You're DEAD WRONG. you listen to the internet. But good luck with that lol.

[@110americalovingpatriot2]

I built a 406 back in 1991 that I dropped in a 78 Buick Regal I had some old double hump heads with 1.94 valves my cam was a solid lift with 292 duration with a 513 lift and I think I had a Holly 780 double pumper on it and it made 569 WHP. I use to love whooping it on the 5.0 Mustang boys.

[@frankm6601]

Thanks Nick for running the stack that I sent you. Some interesting comments from the other viewers. BTW I'm from Florida, originally NY, and used Amazon and a seller in Canada in order to ship it to you. I ran one of these in the late 70's on my highly modified 355 LT1, except with a filter of sorts, fit under the stock 1970 Camaro Z-28 hood. You remain my favorite KZbin producer!

[@nickpanaritis4122]

Frank M. The sending address on the box was from Ontario, Canada. Thanks Frank, I will try it again in the future with the brace lined up correctly. Hopefully with an engine that I can push to the limits without any worries. Thanks again Frank.

[@Thebowzer221]

Great video once again Nick. Keep M coming. From a MoPar guy from the 60's who can't get enough of this, even at 69 years old.

[@moparedtn]

Nick! I see I'm not the only one who hits the thumbs up before even watching. :-) It's pretty darn cold down here in the south right now, too. I'm way past ready for spring. I need to get the raggedly old 23 spline 4 speed out of my GTX and get a proper 18 spline in it, but I won't be doing this one on my back on the concrete. I've gotten too old and that stuff hurts! I'll have to take it to a Mopar friendly shop instead and I hate that. Nobody ever works on my stuff but me, but I guess I've reached that age now. Anyways, everyone sign up on Patreon and support Nick's Garage!!! Every dollar helps. It's the least we can do for all Nick shares with us, after all. Y'all be safe up there, -Ed on the Ridge

[@ericheine2414]

A friend of mine built a 283. The reciprocating mass is balanced, 202 heads, Victor Junior, Holley 750, Duntov 3030 cam. It tachs like crazy, it doesn't run out of cam or carb, he beats it and beats it and it doesn't blow up. It's a snappy little motor

[@SR-jh5zc]

That one Bad 400 ci sounds great love them SBC 400 s keep up the good work nice 😁

[@gregleithoff5943]

Wow Nick, that episode really was good with the 400 dyno and you working while the jazz music was playing, that really transported me to your shop. Please keep it up! Thanks, Greg from Las Vegas.

[@tinkmarshino]

Dang Nick that charger looks better and better.. It was just a touch exciting to watch you put that heater core in.. I have done these kind of restorations before (I actually have the last car I am working on -1963 T-Bird- in the drive.. I just put in the hydraulics for the top and finished off the wiring in the trunk) But no more.. my body it to old to do this anymore.. I was glad to stop because I just can't do it anymore.. But then as I watch you work on your toy I get a bit nostalgic and remember how it feels.. But no.. I am done.. I am going to ship all of my shop tool off to my son this spring.. Vasili looks to be a funny lad.. He must be good to have around the shop! Not only a hard worker but a fun fellow.. that is a good combination.. Well have fun my friend.. it is always great to have a job you have fun with (most of the time) oh one thing.. I have been to your wonderful country.. and I have needed a heater during the day as well as at night many times.. Enjoy! and thanks for the share..

[@5jr.racing982]

I ran a 400 small block in my last race car....bored out to make it a 406 ci....bow tie heads and bow tie intake...made over 400 hp ...won 3 features with it!

[@carguyuk7525]

Nicks videos are brilliant. He is such a character.

[@miked.5287]

Mornin nick..I see the street in front of your shop is buried in snow..lol..perfect timing..just sat down with a fresh cup of java to find a new episode from you..have a good day!

[@adammiller6606]

We appreciate you guys. Thanks for another great episode.

[@d.j.9961]

That Lingenfelter Camaro is ALL THAT!!! Just having the Lingenfelter name on it makes it VERY SPECIAL! Then a Paxton superscharger,,,I WANT IT BADLY!!!

[@lensnow8957]

Love my 400 SBC. Ever since dad bought a 71 kingswood with one. It ruined me for 350s. Ive had to put a 400 in every car Ive owned. On my 4th 72 Chevelle Malibu.

[@MichaelandCathy1999]

471 hp from 400ci-pretty impressive. I’d be more than happy with that result. And maybe other commenters have a point about the mounting bracket of the stack , both about the cross over bracket and rejet 1 step up. And Visili, forget the Water/Methanol spray, it has been tested and shown to do absolutely nothing towards power upgrade , but WILL wash oil lubricant off cylinder walls and degrade oil pressure/ protection throughout that beautiful engine.

[@tomnekuda3818]

If you are running a high compression engine on the ragged edge and getting pre-ignition/pinging you can use the water/alcohol spray to quench the pinging, thus enabling you to run more timing and get more power. I used it on a high compression 460 Ford that I used to tow with and it really worked for me....more power, better gas mileage, cleaner plugs, etc. One thing to watch for is spray droplet size.....too large and it can erode the piston tops, almost like sandblasting the pistons. The closer you can come to a vapor(not a droplet), the better for all engine parameters. That said, there is nothing to be gained if you are not running on the very edge of your engine's octane needs. If you are washing down the cylinder walls I would suggest recurving distributor so you can use less alcohol/water injection. That's what worked for me.....would like to hear some suggestions from you guys......I'm always learning. Good video, Nick. Thanks, Tom

[@garymathews9534]

a local engine builder makes 450-480 hp 470-480 tq with a 400 sbc ..030 over bore stock cast crank .ported 441 heads ,bigger valves ,victor jr intake ,750 dp carb.isky 292 mega cam .pump gas

[@CC-xs1hh]

All very good points, live learning from you guys.

[@codyburns4149]

Ask someone in the oil field to get you "casing head gas". Run that with a water injector.

[@thetriode]

@@tomnekuda3818 I have heard it can erode headers if you use it cold. Not 100% on that but I also knew a dude with a TA that was running it because his comp was a bit hot for pump gasoline.

[@ericmcginnis9413]

I once owned a small block 400 out of a 73 caprice wagon! It was reworked and was a beast! A torque monster! I could go on and on detail/spec wise but the 400 engines can easily be made to produce big power even with just minimal work! Just bored .030 over polish the crank port and do work to the heads the intake and carb and exhaust! Mine had amber light weight pistons, ported heads, valves 202 160 ,a cheap edelbrock intake, now mine had a roller cam and roller rockers, Holley 750 , a few other tricks and you can make good power but .30 over is still mild for this block! You can go bigger and get big numbers with today's tech! I want to build another one to be honest but with L.S. engines being so available you really have to love old iron to do it! What I mean is this I would love to build a modern turbo'D 400 but when you look at the cam's available and considering the old thought of the more radical the shorter it's life span, it makes more sense to start with an L S ! It's cam is better suited to longer life expectancy! Throw in features like hardened cylinder walls and modern fuel injection IDK but if I had it my way I would still build a couple versions!!!

[@johnnyzonta5173]

Nice video, always informative with your dyno sessions, great work.

[@misterd3979]

Always a treat when Nick fires up the dyno!Hope to visit some day to shake your hand Nick . . .

[@angeloparis7963]

360 cu in Chev with 8000 rev capability. Av gas, hi comp (12 1/2), 2 inch spacer on Victor Jr. and 6 inch velocity stack (known as a " ram" stack) on Holley 850 DP with a forward facing bonnet scoop. It's a science, but this works.

[@berniebass3575]

It ,s good to see the man get his hands dirty , some guys just bark out the orders, good deal sir, you have my respect.

[@iamrichrocker]

Nick is never tired at work, especially after a late night..because he is on speed...the high dose kind...legal too..

[@NicksGarage]

That, and a little Tim Horton’s coffee.

[@niceguy2171]

@@NicksGarage , FTFY and a lot of Tim Horton's coffee..I know, as it's the only thing that gets me moving in the mornings too ;)

[@kevinroche1623]

Mr. Itchrocker, what are you on? Making HP is a natural high.

[@niceguy2171]

Really impressive HP out of that 400..and have had a few of them, one in a big C20 truck that had low end power in spades. Wish I would of had my Nick's Garage merchandise stay overnight in the Kowalski body. Another great video, and we just want more please.

[@mikemc7704]

The hockey player that you speak of got that advice himself from the famous American professional Golfer Arnold Palmer. About your ledgeable Signature. It shows you are identifying with that individual at that moment and you care.

[@yodaistheone]

Cannot wait for more on your car. Love to see how it evolves and becomes whole again.

[@thomaskerr2082]

Thank You for sharing your work with us, smart cookie !

[@warrenstephens3705]

The velocity stack wasn't made to out perform an open engine on the dyno. It was designed to help pull air straight down into a carb helping the air flow. Carbs like to pull air straight down so the raising of the sides on the stack does help air flow when you have a filter element mounted. When you start testing the different air cleaner assemblies and filter sizes you will see the benefits of the velocity stack. Filter assemblies rob HP especially the smaller ones. With a small 8 inch air cleaner mounted directly on the carb with a 2 inch filter in it you will lose 15 to 50 hp (depending on the engine) over open (nothing on the carb). When you add the velocity stack and mount the same air filter on top of it you will gain most of that back so it does have its benefits but not in this situation. On my 500+HP 383 I used a velocity stack with a 4 inch filter on top of it and only lost 9 HP over open. Every other filter combination lost at least 15 HP and went up from there. BTW the little 8x2 assembly cost 48 HP on my motor.

[@Ascotman]

These Chevrolet 400 CI small blocks were standard issue engines on 1971-1973 Chevrolet Caprices.

[@aaronhumphrey2009]

Also in the Leman's. Once you removed the factory smog pump/ emmisions crap, added a cam, headers, big Holley they're great

[@charlesprice7608]

Aaron Humphrey the lemans ran a Pontiac 400 a completely different engine than a small block chevy

[@MikeBrown-ii3pt]

The 400 small block wasn't "standard issue" in any vehicle. However, they were an available option in many vehicles. They were discontinued for cars in 1975 or 1976 but still available in trucks/vans until 1979 or 1980. I currently own a 1979 GMC K-25 with it's # matching drivetrain-400 small block, TH-400 trans, NP 205 (I believe) case, 14 bolt rear/Dana front. I'm not bragging-it's not a jacked up show truck, just a good old working truck that wears its battle scars with pride, isn't scared of the local lumber yard or landfill, and gets the job done! My dad bought it brand new so it's definitely a keeper. I want to (and will) restore it in his memory someday. I just have too many other projects right now and this truck is helping me chase parts and supplies finish them. I own nicer trucks than this one, including a few that ARE show trucks but, with the exception of the 1978 K-35 that I bought, as a sophomore in high school back in 1984, dads truck is my favorite.

[@rtkl13]

@@MikeBrown-ii3pt uh...you are mistaken a 400 sbc was most certainly offered. I know cuz my father bought a 72 Chevy caprice brand new with one in it and it even had the 400 emblem down on the rocker trim

[@rtkl13]

@@MikeBrown-ii3pt and also they didn't make a k-25 or a k-35 in 78 or 79. The designation was K-10, K-20, and K-30. 25 or 2500 technically and 3500 were later 80s and up

[@bennyjones1597]

I'm just loving the Kowalski Nick every little bit takes it that much farther and I'm loving it have a great winter it's almost over God bless you and your family and the Kowalski build

[@rondyechannel1399]

I took a 4 bolt 400 Chevy from a Brookswood wagon, added longer rods, forged pistons, Brodix heads with 2.08 intake valve, and stuffed it into a 1969 Jaguar XKE (under the bonnet) with a 4 sp. At 2400 lbs, it only needed 2 nd. and 4 th. gears even racing! I also raised the rear diff ratio to 2.88. Incredible traction with the engine set back it was untouchable on the street. Unique DOHC valve covers. Seen it? Should have never sold, contact me.

[@NebukedNezzer]

I think the pink big block will be a MONSTER performer.

[@jimgee2676]

awesome video as always I especialy like the picture you have up in your stock room of a 1970 Plymouth fury 111 convertible :)

[@tripleblackcuda8876]

Another great vid, good to see little bits being done to the kowalski, keep going because all the small bits will lead to one big thing; THE KOWALSKI!

[@jerkygutts8386]

A friend talked me into a 400 block he had laying around punched it 30 over with a mild .455/.455 cam slapped some comp behive springs on a set of vortec heads with a rpm air gap intake and a holley hp 750 and a set of headers ....it's a torquey SOB !! Stout little budget build in 79 camino with 3:42 gears was just expecting a big improvement over the tired 305 it had but runs harder than i ever thought it would for the money put into it

[@jackrohde4709]

Nick you're so positive, I love your videos. ☺👍

[@RamblinAround]

I'd say 28° is pretty conservative on the timing, even on pump gas. I'll bet there is a bit more power to be had there. The majority of SBC's I've messed with did well in the 32 to 36° range, but obviously it depends on a lot of variables.

[@kenray6008]

Man he's missing 50 hp bu only running 28 small chevys likes 36 to 38 degrees of timing unless using vortex heads

[@waynewilliams5802]

Lol...im sure you know way more than this guy! Heck your probably chief tech on John Force team

[@jasonrobertsutliff]

I run at 32° on my 406 in an 82 Elky.

[@jrod264winmag]

Yep, my 383 stroker and 350’s all like 32 to 36

[@kainhall]

@@waynewilliams5802 its not that he knows more.... its that this is common knowledge... . its like you saying "wow, you must be smarter than NASA" when someone says "the sky is blue"

[@mikelong4184]

Amen,Nick when I watch your Dyno runs I tell my wife it's concert time!

[@davidbutterfield2949]

Love your videos Nick. G’day from Australia 👍🏻🇦🇺

[@rexmedina4561]

Wow,what a clean iroc!i have a 91 rs that is begging for some good loving. Makes me want to start wrenching, thanks Nick!

[@crspcritter]

Nice ; Thanks fer the show -

[@cowboy742]

I put a Mighty Mouse 406 (Smoky Yunick specced .030 over 400) in a 66 shortbed fleetside pickup back in the 80's. Never had anything that strong or fast since.

[@OldeCarrGuy]

Another great video George/Nick! Looking forward to the next one!

[@stevie..d..pontiactransamm1215]

I love SBC 400'S. I'm in the process of building 2 destroked 400's(1182 forged crank 377 CI and a 4672 forged crank, GM semi finished dimple rods 7/16 bbc rod bolts 350CI). I Absolutely love the PAXTON IROC Z-28.

[@kalussowski4589]

I built a 377 in the early 90's, wow did it run. low 6's 1/8 mile and low 9's in the 1/4 at 145mph, pulled front wheels up a foot. left line 6500rpm, 1.4 short time. PS all on 10" slicks non tubbed, also 2 speed power glide. they made me install cage in my street car, (I can see that) plus any faster then a cute. Red line was 9600, but kept it under 8600 for less mph. Never on dyno, but figured 600. Good luck on your 377 and enjoy

[@stevie..d..pontiactransamm1215]

I figure the SBC 377 is the best engine combo for the dollar. Big bore short stroke long connecting rods. Revv to the sky my man.

[@johnderekmitchell1510]

That thing sounded ANGRY at first fire up.

[@philc9811]

Another awesome video guys!!

[@karlbradshaw9033]

Great Show! Very informative. Keep up the good works.

[@larryurbanowich5194]

Hi Nick, another great video! Your welcome for the flag of Manitoba! Hope to visit you next time I make the trip to Montreal.

[@robertorhymes]

Nick is back with a velocity stack Let's get it on the dyno Coz we gotta hear that thing run and go Wow Small block Chevy runs hard n pulls heavy Maxed out that's what it's all about Big shout out!

[@jandsmarineservicejimfromd4994]

Great show, summer is right around the corner!

[@darylnicklen3685]

That's what make Nick great finding a simple solution to an imperfect after market part.

[@jerrybowers2119]

Test velocity stack w/o hold down bar covering 2 carb venturis. Hold down parallel or perpendicular not diagonal covering 2 carb venturis.

[@churd13]

Thank you Jerry. I'm surprised it didn't lose more HP than it did.

[@bigrockets]

a flat bar located above the high speed bleeds on the primaries generates a lot of turbulence. It also affects flow thru the boosters. this is enough right here to drop the power down to what was experienced on both tests. personally I think this was the cause of the problem and not the stack itself.

[@crankysports]

That 400 sounds amazing I love the cam

[@kymopar]

..your videos just keep getting more awesome!

[@nitrosmed8693]

Love all of the mopar stuff! My father had a 1969 dodge coronet super bee, now racing a 1987 mustang that we have done some work too, looking for low 12s this summer! Keep up the great work, take care.

[@curbstomp3126]

400 SBC will rev to 7000 rpm all day long. I had one I built for a 73 Chevy 1/2 ton in the 90s. We ran a 850 Holley carburetor with 150 shot of nitrous. It was one hell of a sleeper.

[@231mac]

Junker Colunker The valve springs dictate how high it can rev and besides, the power is dying off after 5700. The only reason to rev past that is to optimize the rpm's for the next gear and that won't be anywhere near 7000.

[@danielscott6787]

7000 RPM? does that come with or without connecting rods?

[@curbstomp3126]

@@danielscott6787 you can do that on a stock 2 bolt

[@cuzz63]

like 231mac pointed out, you might be able to rev that high but its pointless if its not making power.

[@MrPappysCobra]

Great video's Nick!

[@bobcrawford5083]

Always a great video Nick...good luck with the snow..Bob Pittsburgh Pa.

[@kencohagen4967]

Funny how difficult it is to tune an engine. For one application a velocity stack like this means a huge difference. On my 69 AMX with a 390 I used a short stack with a foam filter on top and it killed horsepower. Then I installed a used Moroso air cleaner which could have been used with a KNN stub stack if I had been running a Holley instead of a Carter AFB, and it made a big difference in the seat of the pants dynonometer and in observed acceleration against cars I had previously run. With the right set up, like a rebuilt engine, high compression Pistons, chrome moly dings and a better cam, a torker manifold, the best available at the time for AMC with a Holley 750 and a stub stack with the Moroso style air cleaner, it would have made well over 1 hp per cubic inch. In 1969, without these parts the prostock entrants back by AMC made over 500 hp. At the time I owned my AMX the Mopar 440 had a build card they made available to the public that made 529 hp from a 440 cubic in big block Mopar. The 390 made the same HP in '60 without the good dog leg heads and Cams choices. Had they been compared side by side I think the red headed stepchild of the Muscle car era would have kicked the 440's ass. Keep in mind that that statement would be backup up by an article by Hot Rod Magazine in high the 440 Mopar got that exact build, while every other big block out there got as close to the same build as the Mopar mill. That means the 454 Chevy, 455 Pontiac, and OLDs, along with the 460 Ford all got aluminum Edelbrock heads while the 455 Buick got its heads from TA performance right here in Scottsdale AZ. All the engines were equipped with edelbrock Performer heads and manifolds hill the Buick got TA parts, and the Cams were supplied by Comp Cams, which were ground as close to the 529 hp Mopar grands a possible given their advanced technology. The number one position was filled by the TA Performance Buick. number two only a few hp shy by the 440 Mopar, followed by the 454 Chevy. If they had run the little 390 or 402 AMC mill with the current Edelbrock parts and a cam with time same specs as the Mopar, I think they would have taken second, or possibly first away from the competitors. The funny thing is that the mighty 454 did so badly that the next month's issue had them replacing the equal intake manifold and intake to get the Chevy on top of the mix. But honestly, if the rest of the motors tested all got those same treatment The boat anchor 454 wouldn't have faired any better. It's all about the balance of parts. And the velocity stack used in Nicks test was useless at low RPM. Even the short Velocity stack lost out to the Moroso aircleaner which offered a contoured path to the carb from both the bottom and top of the air cleaner. So, take the adds behind these parts with a grain of salt. And forget your buddies opinions too! Look for data already collected by the magazines. They spent money to inform you how well stuff worked, let them foot the bill

[@nickpanaritis4122]

ken c. OK Ken. Thanks for the info.

[@48kornbinder19]

Love your channel. I watch it all of the time. Just a suggestion on the velocity tower. Remove that piece that you drilled out. And use bungie cords like you use on that other one you show sometimes. If you look at the straight down view, that bar is interfering with the air to two of the ventures. That bar is causing interference to air flow. Just a thought. By the way I'm a 71 year old viewer, and you make me feel young again....

[@angeloparis7963]

Obvious Nick didn't care. (I'm 70 :) )

[@chuckfults9256]

that Paxton IROC(international race of champions) IS one rare Camaro ! CHA-CHING! Nick, i remember those IROC's running bumper to bumper at 190mph at Ontario(ca) back in the 80's-90's! The SOUND of 5 or 10 of them AT the same time AT that speed DAMN! damn Nick, that 400 had more torque than horsepower, A stump puller! WINNING

[@MikeBrown-ii3pt]

I found and subscribed to the channel yesterday after watching the video of the 427 Chevy that wasn't what it should've been. Imagine my surprise when this one came up featuring my FAVORITE engine of all time! I HOARD Chevy 400 small blocks-I currently have 7 bare blocks (all x-rayed for cylinder wall thickness) on shelves in my shop. I also have a bunch of "virgin" 400 sbc cranks on my shelves. I normally build my 400s for low end torque but, I do run a GM cast block built to 427" in my 74 Camaro drag car. I won't give you ALL the specs but I will tell you that it started as a 2 bolt main block. Since GM NEVER cast a proper 4bolt main, it now has Milodon "splayed" 4 bolt main caps, a Callies steel crank, and other "secrets". I actually avoid ALL factory cast 4 bolt main Chevy (small or big) blocks because they drilled the outer bolts straight in. You don't need 4 bolt mains unless you're turning over 6000rpm consistently anyway and, when the outer bolts are drilled straight, it weakens the web, making it easier for the web to develop cracks. I'd like to add a few things that you didn't mention about the 400 sbc in this video. 1) The main bearings are larger in diameter than typical small blocks and the connecting rods are shorter. Bigger bearings are good. Shorter rods, not so much. 2) They have a 3 3/4" stroke-the longest of all small block Chevy engines. I HATE when people grind the main journals of a stock 400 crank to fit a typical small block to build a 383. There are many high quality, inexpensive, aftermarket balanced bottom end kits available these days to build a 383 that also don't require the builder to balance the assembly and/or grind the pan rails so that the longer stroke/counterweights will clear. 3) The 2 middle cylinder bores on each bank are "siamesed" (no water jackets between them), that's why the blocks have to be x-rayed. Then you'll know if/how much the block can be over-bored. The 400 sbc also has a 4 1/8" bore standard. The largest of any sbc-that's why they're siamesed. 4) Stock 400 cylinder heads and head gaskets have 4 steam holes. If you use aftermarket heads and/or gaskets, these holes HAVE to be there. If they aren't there, it's easy to drill them with a 1/4" bit as long as you're careful to drill to the proper depth. On the other hand, any machine shop can drill them for a minimal charge. Anyway, love the video-especially the few seconds showing what looks like a 69/70 Boss Mustang on the lift with a "HEMI" fender pad on it...that made me chuckle! I also hope that the big block Chevy from yesterday's video is healed and making the power that it should be-even a stock build on a mild 427 makes an easy 360 hp! That poor thing was wrong 6 ways from Sunday!

[@NicksGarage]

Thanks for your comment and welcome to the team! We are glad you found us. Tell a friend?

[@MikeBrown-ii3pt]

@@NicksGarage Oh yeah! I've told several friends already. Thanks for the reply too!

[@rdsledge]

Loved the video! Thanks Nick

[@robertevans6481]

Love the sound of those engines...that is my kind of music....

[@kingerikthegreatest.ofall.7860]

Great content as always. Cool iroc. Hope you get some Cougars (67-70) in the shop soon.

[@newportbeach3621]

One hell of good guy keep right there . Great content keep it coming..

[@LucoreAuto]

Very cool to see you guys giving some love and attention to the unloved bigger brother of the Chevy TreeFiddy! Though not nearly as popular they can definitely make some excellent power and sounds! Keep these videos coming guys!

[@Smarterthanyou-mthrfkr]

Man i love Greece. I have been to Athens, and many greek islands Good folk Love this channel

[@catman351]

I vicariously visit Greece through ordering the gyro plate at the local restaurant.

[@SuperDave21]

Thanks for the great videos Nick. You remind me of my New York family from a half century ago! I'm in SW Oklahoma but we still hotrod here too!! Cheers.

[@cuzz63]

I am in Lawton...do I know you? lol

[@SuperDave21]

@@cuzz63 Don't guess so....We're neighbors.... lol. I'm in Anadarko 40 miles to your NE.

[@cuzz63]

@@SuperDave21 , cool, been to Darko many times.

[@kostipapa6671]

Legend niko ,4 in the morning ,must've been awsome .love the greek music, happy new year Leventides

[@bandagefreak]

Loving the Kowalski Project progress, Nick - its' like Christmas every time!! Keep up the great work!! Craig from Scotland :@D

[@charger19691]

As soon as I start watching a Nick's Garage video, I immediately hit the thumb's up ,because I know it's going to be a great time!

[@motorman1873]

Definitely a follower not a leader.............

[@charger19691]

Jay Kirk , what's your point?

[@dredrotten]

@@charger19691 I think his point is that leaders thumb down a video before they watch it. lol

[@tommith.]

@@charger19691 k

[@blinkie1523]

Thanks once again Nick for another great watch as that 400 Chevy wasn't bad.

[@derickgoff2048]

The cross bar for the stack was lined up over the emulsion holes which would effect fuel flow and cause the loss of power. The crossbar should be lined up with the choke tower centerline

[@nickpanaritis4122]

Derick G. Yes, You are correct. Long night. We will try it again.

[@jessicawells5145]

I pulled mine out of a 4 door 73 chevelle, that was in 95 give 150 bucks for it.the numbers I looked up on it it was 290 horse power 490ft pounds at 23hundred rpms,an thats with a 2barl.wild thing about it ,it had 290 horses on the air cleaner,it was a one owner car,the engine went in my 80 z28

[@zxtenn]

470 hp from a 400 more than respectable, I remember the old 'angle plug heads' they used to suggest use with HIGH compression pistons, something to do with the dome size and flame travel

[@shannonmccluney6626]

Attention to detail is everything

[@brentdoege6266]

Love your videos and the cars! Thank you for the work you do!

[@NicksGarage]

Thanks for saying thanks, Brent. You’re very welcome.

[@samrothstein9716]

Lots of myths about 400s. They do not run hot, the steam holes only apply to factory heads idling for extended periods of time. I’m running a handful of 400 blocks that will run at whatever temperature I set the cooling fan at. They take a beating and never give me any problems. Real easy to make good hp and tons of low end torque.

[@davidbakker-wester113]

The crossbar in the velocitystack was not clocked right and blocks airflow to two channels in the carb! Look at the overhead shots.

[@GJ-DT]

Correct

[@donreedy5346]

I agree David.

[@ablaylock4273]

yep

[@yodawg3469]

That's my favorite style of Camaro,such good lookin' cars

[@jimkihn1475]

It scares me to think what you could have done to my '66 Impala SS . 396/ 402 bored .30 over, it was quick without your god given motor talents. It would have FLEW .. Love to watch your show & you & how you love what you do , keep up the amazing work & TY.. Jim

[@kenheaslett9405]

i love it Nick! you adapt & overcome!!! excellent!!!