350 Build UP!!!!
 

I have a stock 350 Small Block in my 242 1985 Formula. I want more power!!! I figure to do this in the spring but i want some idea's first. I basically want more speed. Im sure a lot of people built up there 350's and wondering if someone can help me with it. I have some Idea's but want to hear from others. Please leave information here or PM me and we can talk from there. Thank you.

Swap it out for a stock 502/454 mag.

Before getting too carried away, what drive is on the 242?

Sadly.....alpha.

I would probably focus on adding about 100hp to what you have. Cam change, intake and carb and maybe head work. I am no sbc guy but searching should get some good ideas. There is also the stroker route if you are into doing the whole rotating assembly. Anyway, merc did put alphas behind some bbc but stock would be about as far as you would want to go. I wouldn't do the bbc unless you were wanting to go much further hpwise down the road.

BT

Put small single carb blower on it,and run 5psi. It will still be reliable and wont break the bank. I just sold a brand new B and M , with a new carb for $1500. Easiest way to add 75-100hp.



Darrell.

They were 454-330 on a light boat like a 18 donzi. The rule seems to be 300-325 max with the alpha. I have a 29 scarab with 270 carb mags. Have never killed a drive but I don't hammer it. :eek:

I figured cam change, carb and heads. It gives you the extra top end and not so much tork to hurt the outdrive. Also its a easy and cheaper route to go on. I plan on having the boat for 4 more years and then going to a 29/31 footer.

Heavy boats seems to be the real problem.

Ran just about 500 hp through my Alpha without a problem. I do not beat on it though.

Holed a piston on the 385 but he drive is still going strong. The key is a drive shower, change the oil religiously, and keep the boat in the water.

Your 242 is better suited to a big block/bravo if you ask my opinion.

Tom

With the above said....

What are you turning now for rpm and what are you trying to gain?

When I toasted my 385, I put together a quick 350 with Vortec heads and a Hot cam. It's slower than the 385 for sure (about a 12-15 mph difference) but it's still a ton of fun, cheap, and still runs in the mod 60s.

You could do modern Vortec heads, a GM Hot cam, and exhaust an probably pick up a few mph PLUS make it very responsive in the mid range (that's what I really like about the Vortec).

Tom
(Sorry for the multiple posts and edit... The iPhone doesn't like this site too much).