400 pistons

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Feb 15, 2004 | 03:44 PM

mbburchell2004

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400 pistons

Do the pistons get a lot of wear. so like if i found a set ot 400 pistons in the junk yard would i be able to use them in my 400 with out any worries. or would i be better to get a set of 351 pistons.
Sorry for all the post just rying to get my pick up running.

Feb 15, 2004 | 06:25 PM

danlee

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If you got used pistons you would need to have them measured, and have your bore measured to make sure the clearance was right.

Replacement pistons are not that expensive that anyone would consider used pistons.

What is wrong with your old pistons, they are used pistons.

Do you want 351C pistons? You cannot use a 351M piston in a 400.

Feb 16, 2004 | 07:11 AM

Torque1st

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Check the other posts here for info about replacement pistons. Badger is making the flat top piston again.

Feb 17, 2004 | 02:48 PM

mbburchell2004

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nothing is wrong with the pistons i got that i know of i was just wondering if i found a set out of a '71 400 that are higher compresion if the would work i was wondering about 351C.
Ben

Feb 17, 2004 | 06:15 PM

danlee

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You will have to look long and hard for a useable set of '71 pistons. Then if you find them, you may not be able to use them due to clearance issues.

Yes 351C pistons will work, but the rods need bushings due to the smaller diameter pins in the 351C pistons.

The best bet is the Badger flattops, that seem to be available again.

Feb 18, 2004 | 01:23 PM

mbburchell2004

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thanks for the info what would be wrong with the clearance was the block changed or something in '72 and were would i find badger at. I need to egt this truck running good to show my g/f grandpa what a 400 can do he thinks there only good for aboat anchor. well thanks for all your help.

Feb 18, 2004 | 02:11 PM

danlee

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If you found stock '71 original equipment pistons that were in good condition, then the clearance would be OK for a new 4.0" bore. But if your bore is worn at all, which it probably is, then you will have excess clearance with those pistons. In the case where your bore is worn, you should open the bore to 4.010, or 4.020, 4.030, etc to get a perfectly round bore. Then you will need pistons that are 4.010, etc. Since the '71 pistons are 4.0", you would not be able to use them, no matter how good they are.

I have seen Badger Pistons on Ebay, and you should be able to find some links here, by searching for 'Badger.'

You shouldn't buy the pistons until you have had the cylinders checked and know what size to buy.