I have a 455 block casting numbers 396021 Fa I recently bought. This is my first engine build and looking for opinions. I have a 71 cutlass convertible which already has a 350 but I want to build up my 455 and eventually replace the 350.. My goal is to have a nice weekend driver with some power to it..starting with the rotating assembly do anybody have any opinions on crankshaft ,rods and pistons .. And what's the highest compression I can go with normal gas? And would love to be pointed in the right directions for parts.. Orders summit and jegs mag but everything is mostly Chevy in there.

Thanks in advance , Chris

 

Nobody??

 

These questions are probably asked about a dozen times a week, that might be why no one answered.

Budget?

Stock crank is fine. Eagle H beam Rods are the best bang for the buck in my opinion.
Keith black Icon pistons, again best bang for the buck.
10.5:1 with aluminum heads, 10.0:1 with the stock irons, max.
Heads, if you have to put anywhere near $1000.00 in your heads, and normally you do, then it's best to just get the Procomps. Good head for the money and free hp.
Cam - I prefer rollers, more expensive up front but 0 maintenance, no special oils or additives and typically more performance apples to apples.
Performer Intake, stock Qjet or 800cfm or so aftermarket carb.
Any good HEI will suffice for your ignition needs.

Check out some of my builds on here to know what to expect.

Hope this helps. Good luck!!!

 

Thanks for the advice.. And my budget is say around 3 to 4 thousand since I already have a motor in it and I'm doing thie 455 piece by piece. I know you have a good cam for me also ??