Last month we began a multi-part series on the available crate-engine options for both traditional and late-model Pontiacs. This month, we are continuing with three more engines: two traditional Pontiac V-8s and a budget-minded LS engine that is a tremendous bang-for-the-buck value.
When deciding whether a crate engine is the right option for you, keep a realistic set of goals and also a realistic budget in mind. Just because you can afford the list price of the engine, you're not all the way home yet. Will you need a carburetor or headers? What about accessories and modifications to get the engine to fit? How about the cost of shipping?
Having a planned approach to achieving your goals but also allowing for the unexpected surprises that always seem to pop up is a great way to ensure a successful outcome.
Read on as we profile crate engines from Butler Performance, GM Performance Parts, and DCI Motorsports.
Butler Performance
Butler Performance has come a long way since the early '90s when the company advertised that its ported D-port heads would outflow Ram Air IVs. They delivered as promised, and within a few years, the company had firmly established itself in a competitive fraternity of traditional Pontiac engine builders. Today Butler builds more Pontiac-based crate engines than anyone else and ships them all over the world.
"These particular combinations are our best sellers," said David Butler. "We believe they represent a great value-a lot of power for the money-and are the most versatile and durable in a variety of applications."
The main option for this combination is the upgrade from the ported iron 6X heads to the ported aluminum Edelbrocks, which will up the power over 600 yet still work with pump gas. Other upgrades include a 4.5-inch stroker crankshaft and a serpentine belt system.
| ENGINE BUILDUP WORKSHEET |
| PRICE: Starting at $8,950 (extra-cost options shown in the photo) |
| Engine Displacement: |
461-467 ci |
| Horsepower: |
550 to 600-plus horsepower |
| Torque: |
575 to 600-plus lb-ft |
| Bore/Stroke: |
4.155-4.181-in / 4.250-in |
| Block/Crank Combo: |
400 or 455/ Eagle or Scat |
| Bore/Stroke Ratio: |
0.98 |
| Rod/Stroke Ratio: |
1.6 |