400 small block on C50 dumper

[kwmech]

As much as like 400s, the total GVW that the truck is capable of would almost dictate a big block. "Keeping up with traffic" would necessitate different gearing. BUT how fast do you want to go with a fully loaded 50 year old truck? Most medium duty trucks in Calif are supposed to adhere to a 55mph restriction anyways--not that anybody follows these guidelines....

[Arnulfo]

Originally Posted by kwmech

As much as like 400s, the total GVW that the truck is capable of would almost dictate a big block. "Keeping up with traffic" would necessitate different gearing. BUT how fast do you want to go with a fully loaded 50 year old truck? Most medium duty trucks in Calif are supposed to adhere to a 55mph restriction anyways--not that anybody follows these guidelines....

Kind of what I was thinking on the 400 small block. Would like to be able to hold 60 mph on freeway without hurting motor. I do not want to go faster than that especially with a load. As you said no one adheres to the 55 mph. Will always be driven on slow lane but even there average speed around here is 65-70 mph.

[kwmech]

If I were you I 'd figure out gearing and RPM first. That is going to be your killer regardless of the engine. If you can keep it under 3000 at 60, you should be good