Big-Block Buildup

A Comp Cams beltdrive system was used for the ultimate in precision cam timing, ease of cam swaps, and its ability to absorb the crankshaft harmonics that can affect valve motion. The CNC-machined CSI electric water pump is capable of pumping 60 gallons per minute at 12 volts, while only drawing 11 amps. An MSD crank trigger was chosen for its ability to reliably relay where each piston is in the cylinders, along with a 7-inch internal-balance ATI Rattler harmonic balancer, and a Moroso three-vane vacuum pump to generate vacuum within the engine's crankcase to help seal the piston rings and reduce pressure on the underside of the pistons (see "Suck It Up" sidebar).

The bottom end consists of a Scat rotating assembly with the company's new 4340 Superlight series crankshaft, which has been nitride-hardened for superior wear resistance and employs Aero-Wing-design counterweights to reduce windage. And at 59 pounds, it's lighter than its 67-pound factory counterpart. Rounding out the kit is a set of Scat H-beam rods and SRP forged pistons using Speed-Pro rings.

Unlike stroker motors that often require clearancing at the base of the cylinder walls to clear the rod and rod bolts, the modifications to the stock four-bolt 454 big-block were limited to minimal radius work to the oil feed for a smooth, restriction-free oil flow to the mains.

After laying the Scat crank and installing the rods, the main caps were torqued to 100 lb-ft with moly-lube, while the rods were torqued to 65 lb-ft, again with moly-lube. The rod-side clearance checked out at 0.018 inch, and the crank endplay measured 0.004 inch.

To maximize the potential of this naturally aspirated mill, Brule used a stout Comp Cams solid roller with 289/289 degrees duration at 0.050-inch lift and 0.782/0.720-inch intake/exhaust lift on a 112-degree lobe separation angle.

Up top, Airflow Research's highly anticipated new 335cc CNC-ported aluminum heads feature 0.750-inch-thick decks, reinforced rocker-stud bosses, 121cc CNC'd combustion chambers (119cc standard in the as-cast 335), along with premium one-piece stainless steel 2.30/1.88-inch intake/exhaust valves. You can get them out of the box and ready to bolt on for $2,939 (PN 2001), or bare for $2,292 (PN 3350), or in just about any custom configuration in between. Brule opted for bare heads with valves, and assembled them with Comp Cams valvetrain components.