I have a dead 454 MkIV that I will be replacing in a Cig 20 with a Merctrans and TRS drive. The Edlebrock Performer 2.0 intake and 750cfm carb are about all that I can save. Long block is scrap. I've been wading through forum searchs and found loads of info, but not exactly what I need. Finally my question: can I buy/build a bulletproof 425-450 HP BBC for less than $5,000? Something that will run 5000RPM's for an hour if we want. Thanks for any help/info.

did you run 5000 rpms for an hour straight before? what is "dead" about your engine?

The "hour straight" was just in theory, sometimes we do run WOT for maybe 10 minutes after engine is warm.
I pulled the intake and heads off and found #6 piston had disintegrated, looks like the free connecting rod then broke the cam and did a number on the block. I haven't actually checked the crank, but I would never trust it.

i would think you could buy 454 long blocks all day for 5k from about 50 different sources. whats in them will depend on who you buy from but i would think no problem...

I need to buy almost everything: block, rotating assembly, probably heads and the exhaust manifolds are original and have cracks, so those too.

I could piece together a Big Ford that will make 500hp all day long with iron heads for less than 5k, I sure as hope you can do a chevy for less

You want exhaust included too for under 5k???????

Simple answer then would be, NO you can't.

But you can get a 450 hp FULL DRESS Volvo Marine motor for $7k!

I know, I must be dreaming.

NicotineFit
We have been beat up by this place on 454 long block's. Lost out on 4-engines within the last 90 day's.
Long block $4095 !
try www.perfprotech.com
Richard @
RCD Racing Engines
Little Rock, SCarolina