Unleashing Power: Discover the Unique Features and Horsepower Potential of the 383 Stroker Engine

The main difference between a stroker engine and a regular engine is the crankshaft. For a 383-cubic inch stroker, builders use a crankshaft from a 400-cubic inch small block Chevrolet V8. They insert this crankshaft into a modified 350-cubic inch Chevy block. Since both engines are small block Chevys, or SBCs, fitting them together is relatively easy.

The 383 stroker became popular in the 1970s and remained a favorite into the 2000s because building one was simple. Most parts were available at local junkyards. The 350 engine block didn’t need to be in perfect condition. Even with some wear, as long as the cylinders were bored out slightly, it could become a 383. The key upgrade is the 400 crankshaft, which has a 3.75-inch stroke, replacing the 350’s 3.48-inch stroke.

Sure, the bigger size is an advantage of the 383 stroker. But if it’s only about having more cubic inches, why not just fix up an old 400 engine? The first-gen 400s had a reputation for overheating because of their design. This made them less desirable, especially if you wanted to boost their power.

The 383 stroker offers more than size. It has a longer stroke, which means faster piston movement and quicker fuel burning. This setup allows the 383 to generate more power than a regular 350. Although increasing the stroke can slow down the engine at high RPMs, it usually creates better turbulence in the cylinder. This turbulence helps mix the air-fuel solution effectively, leading to improved combustion. In many cases, this means the 383 can take in more air and fuel while expelling exhaust faster.

The horsepower of a 383 stroker can vary based on several factors. These include the type of cylinder heads, camshaft, compression ratio, ignition system, and fuel delivery setup. A well-built 383 stroker can reach over 600 horsepower. Nowadays, you can even buy complete engines without hunting for parts yourself. For instance, BluePrint Engines offers a 383 stroker long block for $5,749, rated at 436 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. It features custom aluminum heads, a 10:1 compression ratio, and a hydraulic roller camshaft.

If you’re looking for a powerhouse, check out the supercharged 383 Chevy stroker from Prestige Motorsports. This engine boasts 600 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque for $24,999. It’s ready to drop in and comes equipped with a polished Weiand 6-71 blower and a complete ignition system. Whether you buy a ready-made engine or build your own custom 383 stroker, both paths offer exciting possibilities.