The Dodge Challenger Message Board

OK, so it's been biting at me for months now- and I finally will be upgrading to a big block. I'm going to take out my 360 and install a 440 in my Challenger.
I've got the engine and I'm in the process of getting all the peripherals to dress it up/ replace what's old on it and give it a fresh coat of Chrysler Orange.
Then, new fuel, water and oil pump- higher cam, lifters, ect...
I will need to get rid of the "360 Four Barrel" hood emblems, so I guess I can go with the "440 Magnum" emblems now right?
The HP block does have six-pack rods and heavier duty cooling channels on the block, so it's a bit heavier duty.
I will post photos of the work and maybe a video of the swap out, as we'll be raising/ lowering the car over the motors.

Gonna be nice!

Don't think I would ever build a 440 again unless one fell in my lap. I would build a 400 and put 383 badges on the hood.

Six pack rods are too heavy. I wouldn't use them either. It is a nightmare trying to balance the crank internally with them. You have to add a lot of weight to the crank throws.

But if it is what you have then go for it. Big difference in torque to your old engine for sure.

Well done Chuck welcome to the big block club

Is the engine a runner?

Don't worry too much about performance just yet, the torque these things make is awesome, it'll give you such a shove in the back at town speeds you won't beleive, you'll love it!

If you get time post up the engine numbers, cast into the block side, stamped on the sump rail and the pad next to the distributor, a wealth of info there.

Davemans right about the Six Pack rods being heavy, they do sit on a forged crank tho.

Even a bone stock '72 on low comp HP 440 will still easily shove a lardy e body up the track in mid 13's with some simple tuning and makes for a really fun road car................... ENJOY IT

Thanks!

Adrian Worman wrote:Davemans right about the Six Pack rods being heavy, they do sit on a forged crank tho.

And they require an out-of-balance damper, if I remember correctly.

I think if you have a 440 it is better to keep them fairly stock on a street car. It will feel a LOT stronger than the small block even just left completely stock.

Agreed.
I am changing the CAM and lifters however. Want it to be a bit more aggressive.
She goes in for surgery next week.