can i get over 500hp with a 400?

 

Simply put....Yes. Now I have to ask about your budget, where do you want your power (RPM Range), and how mechanically inclined you are.

 

There is no limit to the kind of power you can get from cubic dollars. It is the single largest source of power.

 

I would like mid range HP and low to mid range torque. Thinking about some where around 5-7 k

 

I have a full time mechanic that works for my dad to help all I need

 

With that kind of cash I think I would build-up a 460 stroked to a 605 or a 351W instead. I'm not trying to step on anyone's toes but you'll get more hp for your dollar. I'm getting around 430hp out of my 331(stroked 302) for around 3K. Something to think about.

Sanders
351M/400(408 stroker) sitting in garage
331 roller stroker, 1968 F-100

 

460 I would go along with but not the 351w why if they are so great didn't a W based engine win the engine masters challenge this year, but instead was won by a stroker 351c, simply put the W based engines may have the better block but the heads stink in comparision to even the worst of the 335 series smog heads, Kasse got 699hp out of a 410 stroker at less than 6500rpm

 

If you'd like to keep the 400, then I would suggest either buying a set of aftermarket Cleveland heads or getting your worked(port, polish, etc.). Then, jump the compression up some, about 10:1. Good cam chosen appropriately for your power range. Edelbrock Performer or RPM intake. Edelbrock or Carter AFB carb. That should pull about 400 HP and 450lb-ft.

 

Get a set of CHI aluminum head's.You'll meet your power goal's.

 

I'm probably making around 425hp with a very streetable 400 at around $6,000. 00 500hp would not be that hard but street maners may suffer if you don't use things like a roller cam and loose torque converter. I had my wallet water cooled for the job.

 

Im pushin around 370 horse and 390 ft lbs with my 351M. I have invested close to 6k in my engine. The truck runs great but the downside is gas milege. I get right at 8 mpg...But its a toy, something to take to shows and to the track ever once and awhile. The power is there, speed is limited to money, the faster you wanna go the more you gotta put in it..

 

I have a 1959 Custom Cab shortbed.400m engine,decked block,30 over flat top pistons,balanced,351c 4v ported,polished heads(crane roller rockers & guideplates)melling hv oil pump,windage tray,10 qt oil pan,TFC intake(part #AMP9424-4v)830cfm AED carb,hooker super comp headers,3500 stall converter,built C-6 trans,custom alum. driveshaft,9" 488 pos rear,ladder-link,coil over suspension,high volume holley fuel pump(blue)OH,I almost forgot the 100hp plate shot,and I'm getting close to 635 hp on race gas & the bottle,535 on race gas...so ,yes you can get the power.......

 

Fast59,
Do you have pics of yer truck? If so Id love to see them.. Sounds like you got a very NICE machine there..