I got another motor for the Topolino

[maddog]

You all know I am collecting parts to build the Topolino.
I have a SBC, a couple weeks ago I picked up a 49 Merc flathead and today I was offered a rebuilt good running 454 with a mild cam, intake, lakes and a turbo 350 for not much more than a song.

I know which one I would use.

Which one would you suggest I use? Like I need to ask.

 

[donsrods]

What is the name of the song???????? I know which one I would use too, especially if I wanted to get into the 9's.


Don

 

[Gastrick]

I think the 454 would be nice in the Topo, depending upon what your overall plans for the car are. I personally would not use the flathead in that car, but that's just me. I would go with the BBC as a first choice and the SBC as a second choice.

I know that in one of your recent posts, you stated that SBC's are unimpressive, so I'm guessing that the BBC would make you happier. I don't feel that way about small block Chevys. There is a reason that they have basically been the hot rod engine of choice since 1955. I understand that it's refreshing and interesting to see other types of early ohv engines in the cars though. I'm even considering an early Chrysler hemi for my 32. I have a line on one.

 

[maddog]

Yeah, I know the sbc is a great motor. It has its place, for sure. I want to be a little different. I am on a "scrounge it or forget it" budget for my car hobby. My wife would kill me if I go overboard so I gotta keep it cool.

I agree, the flattie is not the right choice for the Topo. The kid getting rid of the 454 sure has his eye on it. Hmmmmm, I love it when a plan comes together.

The Hemi is another top choice for this car but I have not come across one of those.

You mentioned the overall plan for the car. I am guessing you mean it wont be a long distance commuter with that bbc gas hog in it. Correct? Any other tips, thoughts or advice?
I think I know what Don thinks.

 

[joehalford01]

big block big block big block big block

definently the way to go if you can pull it off.

 

[donsrods]

Give me a B, give me an I, give me a G, give me....................


Don

 

[joehalford01]

i think we all know what needs to be done here.......i'm sure you could still find a use for the small block. they're good for really small vehicles where the big block would be way too much weight. such as a go cart, atv, motorcycle......

 

[gassersgarage]

My first choice would be the sbc. Easier on the pocket book and easier to cool. I do like the looks of the flathead. A 394 olds would be better.

Imagine, this last weekend at the Primer Nationals, driving the bbc through the valley with the temp at 105-115. When I had my bbc Vette, I only drove it at night for street racing. With temps we had last weekend, I would never have been able to keep it cool.

If the car is gonna be limited use with drag strip time, bbc. As for sbc vs bbc for power, my friends Nova runs a sbc on a 10" tire. First pass was 9:01.

 

[cycledog]

Ah heck use all three according to the occasion.

 

[Gastrick]

 

[earthman]

Flathead and model A wheels, but,but,but,but,

 

[Tripper]

Flattie?!?!

Dog,
I thought I read somewhere in the "Hot Rod" manual that is was against the rules to put a flattie in a Tup!!! ; - >

BoB

 

[maddog]

Dog,
I thought I read somewhere in the "Hot Rod" manual that is was against the rules to put a flattie in a Tup!!! ; - >

BoB

I thought I read that too. I was just testing mysel..... you guys.

 

[Tripper]

Rat motor!

I thought I read that too. I was just testing mysel..... you guys.

Dog,
Small blocks are easier & better on gas but... nothin' say says bad @$$ like a Tup w/a BB!!! ; - >

BoB

 

[maddog]

The jury of my piers has ruled.

Big Block.

I allways wanted a good reason to have a big block and this is it.

I guess I just will have to limit where I drive it. Right.
If it turns out to be too unpractical I'll just put a Toyota engine in it.

 

[Tripper]

Jury!!!

The jury of my piers has ruled.

A jury of u're pliers has ruled!!! ; - >

 

[Gastrick]

As long as the big block isn't too radical and the gearing is not too deep, The big block will be fine for all kinds of driving. My dad has a 454 in his 48 Pontiac and that car has been driven for hundreds of miles at a time. No sweat.