How much torque can I expect form the stroked 401? To help answer this question lets look at a proven, long standing model, the BBC. I did some looking into how much torque the BBC can make in the RPM range I intend my 401 to operate in (idle to 4000 RPM). I'll throw this out: the BBC will produce more torque than the AMC 401 given equal rpm, cam grind, fuel and aspiration because the BBC has a longer stroke and bigger bore. Should be no surprise, simple physics. I'll surmise the Chvey Performance center has done more research and spent more $$ than any American automotive company in developing automotive engines. I went through their list and found a close comparison, the 454 XETREME 4X4. Check it out at the following:
http://www.sallee-chevrolet.com/ChevyBigBlockV8s/454_xtreme_4x4.html
The dyno chart (actual dyno, not computer generated) states this engine will produce 462 ft/lbs of torque at 2400 rpm and tops out at 475 ft/lbs at 3500 rpm. The cam is a Comp Cam Xetreme Energy cam with a 206/212 and .510/.510 profile. Horsepower peaks at 316 @ 3500 rpm. I realize the compression ratio is only 8:1 on this engine. Raising compression ratio to 9:1 could increase torque and horsepower by as much as 4%. I believe if the Chvy engineers, utilizing their vast financial and technical resources, could have built a stronger engine while ensuring durability and affordability they would have.
Conclusion: 500 ft/lbs of torque at 2400 RPM from a normally aspirated, reasonably bored (say .060) AMC 401 running on pump gas is not a reasonable expectation even if it is stroked to 3.827 or even 4 inches regardless of camshaft selection. I think 400, maybe a little more, ft/lbs at 2400 RPM is more realistic. What say you? I welcome any comments or substantiated/documented counter arguments.
