[Clint Beccue (Clintb)]

I am needing help in determineing the best course of action for my engine(s). I have two, a 72 318 and a 73 318 w/ electronic ignition.

The 72 is original to the challenger and has been in dry storage for around 18 years.

The 73 is original to a coronet which sat outside a number of years.

I need several opinions on several subjects:

1. Which engine should I use.

2. How do I boost the horsepower of these "neutered" engines. I would like a more than 200 but less than 300 as I have a 904 trans. This car will never see the track but would like more than the current 150 they produce.

Do I need a new crankshaft, camshaft, carb, piston, heads? If you could recommend some specifics as I have no experience in rebuilding engines, that would be great!

3. Also, can I disconnect all the emission stuff, and would that make a difference?

Thanks guys

[Dave_R (Roppa440)]

The cheapest way to get more power from a 318/904 combo is to sell them and get a 340 or 360/727.

But if for some reason you MUST stick to the 318 you should fit a pair of 360 heads to the engine with the best cylinders and compression ratio, a 600 - 750 cfm 4bbl carb with vacuum secondaries, a decent cam and intake, and a set of 1 5/8-inch primary headers into 3-inch collectors. And don't forget the electronic ignition.

If you use something like an Edelbrock Performer intake and a MP cam (around 0.430 lift/ 260 advertised duration) you should have a good all round driver with about 250hp at 5000 rpm. It will feel strong at the lower rpms but really pick up between 3500 and 5500rpm.

However I would suggest you try the Hughes Engines cam HE1423AL. It has about the same duration as the MP cam but more lift and will give you a bit more power (more near the 300hp mark). I am sure the trans will take it.

The intake will have to be port matched to fit right with the 360 heads. Block off the exhaust passage through the intake.

I don't know what the legal requirements are with emissions where you live but get rid of anything you don't need except the crankcase ventalation system.

[Jeff Maxwell (Redchalleng]

The emission stuff robbed the engine in 73 compared to 72. If it's legal to get rid of it, Dave's right about it -- again!