Expert: Dan Liddy - 7/26/2004

Question
I want to build a street legal drag racer I would like to use nitrous on the track what motor set up would you recommend and also what  parts should I use in the build of the motor do I need forged crank and connecting rods?  

Answer
Hi Jess :

I haven't been around drag racing for many years, but from what I've seen lately, you will probably find that the 350 small block Chevy will give you the most versatility.

Another factor is that there are literally millions of racing parts available for them.

If you are going to use nitrous oxide, you need to keep your compression ratio realistic. Like in the 8.0:1 range.

Parts you'll need include forged pistons,(I recommend J&E), Racing rods from Carillo, whichever cam you decide will give you the best combo for street and strip use, high qauality racing valves, forged aluminum roller rockers, stud kits for the rocker shafts, and a steel crank, better to go with forged here as well.

If you use nitrous regularly, you will need to change engine bearings fairly often, keep an eye on your oil pressure at a hot idle.  When it starts to sag, it's time to change them.

That's about all I can tell you about it.  I do recommend the 350 though, they're easy to find, cheap, and racing parts for them are usually less expensive as well.

Good luck,

Dan Liddy
Sarasota, Florida