12499529 350/290 HP--Economy Performance Engine
Harmonic Damper
The 350/290 HP engine does not include a harmonic damper. It does include two timing tabs to use either a 6 3/4" or 8" damper. Part number for the 6 3/4" damper is 12551537 and for the 8" is 88960604. Use damper retaining bolt P/N 09440024 and washer P/N 14001829.
Intake Manifold
The 350/290 HP Base engine does not come with an intake manifold. Recommended intake manifolds are P/Ns 14037617, 14057062, or 10182063.
Water Pump
The 350/290 HP Base engine does not come with a water pump. Recommended water pump P/N is 12458924
Ignition System
| • | Recommended distributor is the HEI (High Energy Ignition) distributor Part number 93440806. This distributor is a self-contained ignition system that includes a magnetic pickup, a module, a coil, a rotor, and a cap. The HEI’s large diameter cap minimizes arcing and crossfiring between adjacent spark plug terminals. The cap’s male terminals provide a reliable, positive connection for the spark plug leads. However, the HEI’s large diameter cap may interfere with other underhood components in vehicles not originally equipped with HEI ignition systems. Check for adequate clearance before installation. |
| • | The HEI system requires a 12 volt power supply for proper operation. The HEI ignition system should be connected directly to the battery with 10 or 12 gauge wire through a high quality ignition switch. If you are installing an HEI ignition in an early-model vehicle originally equipped with a point-type ignition, be sure to remove or bypass the resistor in the wiring harness to ensure the HEI receives 12 volts continuously. Use distributor connector package Part number 12167658, which includes connectors and wires for the HEI’s tachometer and 12 volt terminals. |
| • | Set spark timing at 32[ordm ] before top dead center (BTDC) at 3000 RPM with the vacuum advance line to the distributor disconnected and plugged. This setting will produce 32[ordm ] of total advance at wide open throttle (WOT). The HEI vacuum advance canister should remain disconnected. This engine is designed to operate using only the internal centrifugal advance to achieve the correct timing curve. |
Flywheel / Flexplate
Like all small block V-8 engines produced before 1986, the 350/290 HP engine has a 3.58" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern and uses a 2 piece rear main oil seal design. Small block V-8 engines produced from 1958 through 1985 had a 3.58" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. The 350/290 HP engine must use a zero balance flywheel/flexplate (no additional weight) for proper balance. The 350/290 HP engine does not include a flywheel or flexplate. Flywheels and flexplates are available from the chart below.
Part Number | Outside Diameter | Converter Bolt Pattern | Starter Ring Gear Teeth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
00471529 | 12 3/4" | 9.75",10.75" | 153 | For two-piece crank seal |
00471598 | 14" | 10.75,11.50" | 168 | For two-piece crank seal |
Part Number | Outside Diameter | Converter Bolt Pattern | Starter Ring Gear Teeth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
14085720 | 12 3/4" | 10.4" | 153 | For two-piece crank seal |
03991469 | 14" | 10.4,11.00" | 168 | For two-piece crank seal |
Pilot Bearing
You must install a pilot bearing in the rear of the crankshaft if the engine will be used with a manual transmission. The pilot bearing aligns the transmission input shaft with the crankshaft centerline. A worn or misaligned pilot bearing can cause shifting problems and rapid clutch wear. A roller pilot bearing Part number 03752487 is recommended for this engine. This heavy-duty bearing adds an extra margin of reliability to a high performance drivetrain.
Starter
The 350/290 HP does not include a starter. The starter must be matched to flywheel (or flexplate) diameter when installing a 350/290 HP engine. Small diameter flywheels are 12 3/4" in diameter, and have starter ring gears with 153 teeth. Large diameter flywheels are 14" in diameter, and have 168 teeth on the starter ring gear. This difference in flywheel diameters requires two different starter housings. Starter noses used with 14" diameter flywheels have two offset bolt holes; starters used with 12 3/4" diameter flywheels have bolt holes that are straight across from each other.
Important: Chevrolet starter motors use special shouldered mounting bolts, which register the starter on the block.
The following starters and hardware can be used with this engine:
| • | 10496870 - Starter, heavy-duty, remanufactured for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 1876552 - Starter, heavy-duty for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 14097278 - Bolt, starter mounting, long, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 14097279 - Bolt, starter mounting, short, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 10455709 - Starter, remanufactured permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/ flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 12606096 - Starter, permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 14037733 - Bolt, starter mounting, inner for 12 3/4" PMGR starter |
| • | 12338064 - Bolt, starter mounting, outer for 12 3/4" PMGR starter; also for 14" PMGR starter (2 required) |
Carburetor / Air Cleaner
| • | A 670 cfm Holley four-barrel carburetor with either mechanical or vacuum operated secondaries and electric choke is recommended for the 350/290 HP engine. GM Performance Parts has a 670 cfm Holley four-barrel carburetor Part number 19170092 with vacuum secondaries available. |
| • | A foam or paper element, low restriction air cleaner should be used to protect the engine from excessive wear and diffuse the air entering the carburetor. The fuel mixture distribution can be upset if no diffuser is used, causing poor power and misfiring at high engine speeds. Always check for adequate hood clearance when installing a new air cleaner. GM Performance Parts has two chrome 14" air cleaner assemblies for single 4 barrel engines. 12342071 is the Classic design and 123420280 is the high performance design. |
Fuel Pump
The 350/290 HP engine does not include a fuel pump. However, it does have a mechanical fuel pump boss and is fully machined to accept a mechanical fuel pump. The fuel system must be capable of supplying adequate fuel volume at a minimum of 6 psi pressure when the engine is operating at wide open throttle (WOT). Mechanical fuel pump P/N 06415325 can be used with P/N 03704817 fuel pump pushrod. Other fuel pump options are available at our website www.gmperformanceparts.com.
Headers
A 350/290 HP engine can be equipped with a header exhaust system for maximum performance in applications where a nonproduction exhaust system is legal. For street performance and limited competition applications, the recommended header configuration is 1 3/4" diameter primary pipes, 32 to 36 inches long, with 3" diameter collectors. Use 2 1/2" diameter tailpipes with a balance tube ("H" pipe) and low restriction mufflers.
Accessory Drive Brackets
Two Accessory Drive Kits are available from GM Performance Parts to fit the 350/290 HP engine. P/N 12497698 is used for vehicles with air conditioning and P/N 12497697 is used for vehicles without air conditioning. Please see your GM Performance Parts dealer or visit us on the web at www.gmperformanceparts.com.
Spark Plugs / Spark Plug Wires
| • | The 350/290 HP engine does not come with spark plugs. P/N 19157995 (AC R45TS) is recommended for HEI ignition applications. |
| • | When installing the engine in a vehicle originally equipped with a small block V-8 with HEI ignition, standard replacement spark plug wires can be used. High performance 8mm diameter wire sets with the Chevrolet Bow Tie logo or with the GM Performance Parts logo are available from GM Performance Parts for custom installations. The GM Performance Parts logo wire sets are available as Part number 12361056 (135° spark plug boots) and Part number 12361057 (90° spark plug boots). The Chevrolet logo wire sets are Part number 12361050 (135° spark plug boots) and 12361051 (90° spark plug boots). The 135° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires over the valve covers, 90° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires under the exhaust headers. |
Rocker Covers
The 350/290 HP engine comes equipped with stamped steel, flange mount rocker covers. A wide variety of valve cover choices are available at your GM Performance Parts dealer or visit us on the web at www.gmperformanceparts.com.
Crankcase Ventilation (PCV)
Crankcase ventilation is necessary to prevent oil leaks. If a PCV system is used, it must have a one way check (PCV) valve and also a source of fresh air. P/N 06487779 (AC Delco CV774C) PCV valve is recommended and a filtered fresh air breather in the opposite valve cover should be used.
Offset Oil Filter Adapter
An offset oil filter adapter may be installed to provide additional clearance for headers, clutch linkage, and suspension components. This offset oil filter adapter uses a small diameter spin-on filter element.
| • | 12556204 - Adapter , offset oil filter |
| • | 88893990 - Gasket and seal, oil filter adapter |
| • | 11610405 - Washer, oil filter adapter (2 required) |
| • | 14092398 - Bolt, oil filter adapter (2 required) |
| • | AC PF52 - Filter to fit adapter, spin-on |
12496968 350 HO Deluxe--with Iron Vortec Heads
Flywheel / Flexplate
Like all small block V-8 engines produced since 1986, the 350HO Deluxe engine has a 3.00" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. Small block V-8 engines produced from 1958 through 1985 had a 3.58" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. This change in bolt circle diameter was made to accommodate a leak-resistant one-piece rear main seal. Due to revisions in the crankshaft design, a 350HO Deluxe engine must have a counterweighted flywheel (or flexplate) for proper balance. The 350HO Deluxe engine includes a flexplate part number 14088765. Additional flywheels and flexplates are available from the chart below.
Part Number | Outside Diameter | Converter Bolt Pattern | Starter Ring Gear Teeth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
14088765 | 12 3/4" | 10.75" | 153 | For one-piece crank seal |
12554824 | 14" | 11.50" | 168 | Heavy-duty flexplate with increased thickness for one-piece crank seal |
14088761 | 14" | 10.75,11.50" | 168 | For one-piece crank seal |
Part Number | Outside Diameter | Converter Bolt Pattern | Starter Ring Gear Teeth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
14088648 | 14" | 11.0,11.58" | 168 | For one-piece crank seal |
14088646 | 12 3/4" | 10.4,11.00" | 153 | Lightweight nodular iron flywheel, weighs approximately 15 lbs.; for one-piece crank seal |
14088761 | 14" | 10.75,11.50" | 168 | For one-piece crank seal |
Pilot Bearing
You must install a pilot bearing in the rear of the crankshaft if the engine will be used with a manual transmission. The pilot bearing aligns the transmission input shaft with the crankshaft centerline. A worn or misaligned pilot bearing can cause shifting problems and rapid clutch wear. A roller pilot bearing Part number 14061685 is recommended for this engine. This heavy-duty bearing adds an extra margin of reliability to a high performance drivetrain.
Starter
The 350HO Deluxe does not include a starter. The starter must be matched to flywheel (or flexplate) diameter when installing a 350HO Deluxe engine. Small diameter flywheels are 12 3/4" in diameter, and have starter ring gears with 153 teeth. Large diameter flywheels are 14" in diameter, and have 168 teeth on the starter ring gear. This difference in flywheel diameters requires two different starter housings. Starter noses used with 14" diameter flywheels have two offset bolt holes; starters used with 12 3/4" diameter flywheels have bolt holes that are straight across from each other.
Important: Chevrolet starter motors use special shouldered mounting bolts, which register the starter on the block.
The following starters and hardware can be used with this engine:
| • | 10496870 - Starter, heavy-duty, remanufactured for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 1876552 - Starter, heavy-duty for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 14097278 - Bolt, starter mounting, long, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 14097279 - Bolt, starter mounting, short, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 10455709 - Starter, remanufactured permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/ flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 12606096 - Starter, permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 14037733 - Bolt, starter mounting, inner for 12 3/4" PMGR starter |
| • | 12338064 - Bolt, starter mounting, outer for 12 3/4" PMGR starter; also for 14" PMGR starter (2 required) |
Fuel Pump
The 350HO Deluxe engine does not include a fuel pump. However, it does have a mechanical fuel pump boss with a block off plate installed. The fuel system must be capable of supplying adequate fuel volume at a minimum of 6 psi pressure when the engine is operating at wide open throttle (WOT). A high volume in-line electric fuel pump is available from GM Performance Parts Part number 25115899. This heavy duty pump flows 72 gallons per hour at 6-8 psi outlet pressure.
Headers
A 350HO Deluxe engine can be equipped with a header exhaust system for maximum performance in applications where a nonproduction exhaust system is legal. For street performance and limited competition applications, the recommended header configuration is 1 3/4" diameter primary pipes, 32 to 36 inches long, with 3" diameter collectors. Use 2 1/2" diameter tailpipes with a balance tube ("H" pipe) and low restriction mufflers.
Accessory Drive Brackets
Two Accessory Drive Kits are available from GM Performance Parts to fit the 350HO engine. P/N 12497698 is used for vehicles with air conditioning and P/N 12497697 is used for vehicles without air conditioning. Please see your GM Performance Parts dealer or visit us on the web at www.gmperformanceparts.com.
Spark Plugs / Spark Plug Wires
| • | The 350HO Deluxe engine comes with spark plugs Part number 5614210 (AC # MR43LTS). |
| • | When installing the engine in a vehicle originally equipped with a small block V-8 with HEI ignition, standard replacement spark plug wires can be used. High performance 8mm diameter wire sets with the Chevrolet Bow Tie logo or with the GM Performance Parts logo are available from GM Performance Parts for custom installations. The GM Performance Parts logo wire sets are available as Part number 12361056 (135° spark plug boots) and Part number 12361057 (90° spark plug boots). The Chevrolet logo wire sets are Part number 12361050 (135° spark plug boots) and 12361051 (90° spark plug boots). The 135° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires over the valve covers, 90° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires under the exhaust headers. |
Rocker Covers
The 350HO Deluxe engine comes equipped with chrome stamped steel, center hold-down bolt rocker covers. A wide variety of valve cover choices are available at your GM Performance Parts dealer or visit us on the web at www.gmperformanceparts.com. Pre-1987 flange mount rocker covers can be installed on the 350HO Deluxe engine using adapter Part number 24502540. This adapter is machined from billet aluminum, and uses an Oring seal between the adapter and cylinder head rocker cover rail.
Oil Filter Adapter
An offset oil filter adapter may be installed to provide additional clearance for headers, clutch linkage, and suspension components. This offset oil filter adapter uses a small diameter spin-on filter element.
| • | 12556204 - Offset oil filter adapter |
| • | 88893990 - Gasket and seal, oil filter adapter |
| • | 11610405 - Washer, oil filter adapter (2 required) |
| • | 14092398 - Bolt, oil filter adapter (2 required) |
| • | AC PF52 - Filter to fit adapter, spin-on |
12486041 350 HO Base--with Iron Vortec Heads
Intake Manifold
The 350HO Base engine does not come with an intake manifold. The 350HO Deluxe engine comes with a GM Performance Parts dual plane intake manifold part number 12366573 designed for use with raised intake ports and 1996 and newer Vortec style intake bolt pattern. This intake manifold was designed to use a standard flange Holley carburetor. This intake manifold does not have provisions for an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve or a hot air choke.
Water Pump
The 350HO Base engine does not come with a water pump. The 350HO Deluxe engine comes with a long style cast iron water pump Part number 88894341which includes gaskets.
Ignition System
| • | Recommended distributor is the HEI (High Energy Ignition) distributor Part number 93440806. This is the distributor included with the 350HO Deluxe engine and is a self-contained ignition system that includes a magnetic pickup, a module, a coil, a rotor, and a cap. The HEI’s large diameter cap minimizes arcing and cross-firing between adjacent spark plug terminals. The cap’s male terminals provide a reliable, positive connection for the spark plug leads. However, the HEI’s large diameter cap may interfere with other underhood components in vehicles not originally equipped with HEI ignition systems. Check for adequate clearance before installation. This HEI distributor has a hardened (melonized) drive gear that is compatible with a steel camshaft. Use of a non-hardened distributor gear will result in excessive wear. |
| • | The HEI system requires a 12 volt power supply for proper operation. The HEI ignition system should be connected directly to the battery with 10 or 12 gauge wire through a high quality ignition switch. If you are installing an HEI ignition in an early-model vehicle originally equipped with a point-type ignition, be sure to remove or bypass the resistor in the wiring harness to ensure the HEI receives 12 volts continuously. Use distributor connector package Part number 12167658, which includes connectors and wires for the HEI’s tachometer and 12 volt terminals. |
| • | Set spark timing at 32[ordm ] before top dead center (BTDC) at 4000 RPM with the vacuum advance line to the distributor disconnected and plugged. This setting will produce 32[ordm ] of total advance at wide open throttle (WOT). The HEI vacuum advance canister should remain disconnected. This engine is designed to operate using only the internal centrifugal advance to achieve the correct timing curve. |
Flywheel / Flexplate
Like all small block V-8 engines produced since 1986, the 350HO Deluxe engine has a 3.00" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. Small block V-8 engines produced from 1958 through 1985 had a 3.58" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. This change in bolt circle diameter was made to accommodate a leak-resistant one-piece rear main seal. Due to revisions in the crankshaft design, a 350HO Deluxe engine must have a counterweighted flywheel (or flexplate) for proper balance. The 350HO Deluxe engine includes a flexplate part number 14088765. Additional flywheels and flexplates are available from the chart below.
Part Number | Outside Diameter | Converter Bolt Pattern | Starter Ring Gear Teeth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
14088765 | 12 3/4" | 10.75" | 153 | For one-piece crank seal |
12554824 | 14" | 11.50" | 168 | Heavy-duty flexplate with increased thickness for one-piece crank seal |
14088761 | 14" | 10.75,11.50" | 168 | For one-piece crank seal |
Part Number | Outside Diameter | Converter Bolt Pattern | Starter Ring Gear Teeth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
14088648 | 14" | 11.0,11.58" | 168 | For one-piece crank seal |
14088646 | 12 3/4" | 10.4,11.00" | 153 | Lightweight nodular iron flywheel, weighs approximately 15 lbs.; for one-piece crank seal |
14088650 | 12 3/4" | 10.4" | 153 | Standard weight flywheel; for one-piece crank seal |
Pilot Bearing
You must install a pilot bearing in the rear of the crankshaft if the engine will be used with a manual transmission. The pilot bearing aligns the transmission input shaft with the crankshaft centerline. A worn or misaligned pilot bearing can cause shifting problems and rapid clutch wear. A roller pilot bearing Part number 14061685 is recommended for this engine. This heavy-duty bearing adds an extra margin of reliability to a high performance drivetrain.
Starter
The 350HO does not include a starter. The starter must be matched to flywheel (or flexplate) diameter when installing a 350HO engine. Small diameter flywheels are 12 3/4" in diameter, and have starter ring gears with 153 teeth. Large diameter flywheels are 14" in diameter, and have 168 teeth on the starter ring gear. This difference in flywheel diameters requires two different starter housings. Starter noses used with 14" diameter flywheels have two offset bolt holes; starters used with 12 3/4" diameter flywheels have bolt holes that are straight across from each other.
Important: Chevrolet starter motors use special shouldered mounting bolts, which register the starter on the block.
The following starters and hardware can be used with this engine:
| • | 10496870 - Starter, heavy-duty, remanufactured for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 1876552 - Starter, heavy-duty for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 14097278 - Bolt, starter mounting, long, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 14097279 - Bolt, starter mounting, short, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 10455709 - Starter, remanufactured permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/ flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 12606096 - Starter, permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 14037733 - Bolt, starter mounting, inner for 12 3/4" PMGR starter |
| • | 12338064 - Bolt, starter mounting, outer for 12 3/4" PMGR starter; also for 14" PMGR starter (2 required) |
Carburetor / Air Cleaner
| • | A 750 or 770 cfm Holley four-barrel carburetor with vacuum operated secondaries and electric choke is recommended for the 350HO engine. GM Performance Parts has a 750 cfm Holley four-barrel carburetor Part number 12485506 with vacuum secondaries available. |
| • | A foam or paper element, low restriction air cleaner should be used to protect the engine from excessive wear and diffuse the air entering the carburetor. The fuel mixture distribution can be upset if no diffuser is used, causing poor power and misfiring at high engine speeds. Always check for adequate hood clearance when installing a new air cleaner. GM Performance Parts has two chrome 14" air cleaner assemblies for single 4 barrel engines. 12342071 is the Classic design and 123420280 is the high performance design. |
Fuel Pump
The 350HO engine does not include a fuel pump. However, it does have a mechanical fuel pump boss with a block off plate installed. The fuel system must be capable of supplying adequate fuel volume at a minimum of 6 psi pressure when the engine is operating at wide open throttle (WOT). A high volume in-line electric fuel pump is available from GM Performance Parts Part number 25115899. This heavy duty pump flows 72 gallons per hour at 6-8 psi outlet pressure.
Headers
A 350HO engine can be equipped with a header exhaust system for maximum performance in applications where a nonproduction exhaust system is legal. For street performance and limited competition applications, the recommended header configuration is 1 3/4" diameter primary pipes, 32 to 36 inches long, with 3" diameter collectors. Use 2 1/2" diameter tailpipes with a balance tube ("H" pipe) and low restriction mufflers.
Accessory Drive Brackets
Two Accessory Drive Kits are available from GM Performance Parts to fit the 350HO engine. P/N 12497698 is used for vehicles with air conditioning and P/N 12497697 is used for vehicles without air conditioning. Please see your GM Performance Parts dealer or visit us on the web at www.gmperformanceparts.com.
Spark Plugs / Spark Plug Wires
| • | The 350HO engine comes with spark plugs Part number 5614210 (AC # MR43LTS). |
| • | When installing the engine in a vehicle originally equipped with a small block V-8 with HEI ignition, standard replacement spark plug wires can be used. High performance 8mm diameter wire sets with the Chevrolet Bow Tie logo or with the GM Performance Parts logo are available from GM Performance Parts for custom installations. The GM Performance Parts logo wire sets are available as Part number 12361056 (135° spark plug boots) and Part number 12361057 (90° spark plug boots). The Chevrolet logo wire sets are Part number 12361050 (135° spark plug boots) and 12361051 (90° spark plug boots). The 135° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires over the valve covers, 90° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires under the exhaust headers. |
Rocker Covers
The 350HO engine comes equipped with chrome stamped steel, center hold-down bolt rocker covers. A wide variety of valve cover choices are available at your GM Performance Parts dealer or visit us on the web at www.gmperformanceparts.com. Pre-1987 flange mount rocker covers can be installed on the 350HO engine using adapter Part number 24502540. This adapter is machined from billet aluminum, and uses an O-ring seal between the adapter and cylinder head rocker cover rail.
Oil Filter Adapter
An offset oil filter adapter may be installed to provide additional clearance for headers, clutch linkage, and suspension components. This offset oil filter adapter uses a small diameter spin-on filter element.
| • | 12556204 - Offset oil filter adapter |
| • | 88893990 - Gasket and seal, oil filter adapter |
| • | 11610405 - Washer, oil filter adapter (2 required) |
| • | 14092398 - Bolt, oil filter adapter (2 required) |
| • | AC PF52 - Filter to fit adapter, spin-on |
24502609 ZZ4 Base--with Aluminum Heads
Flywheel / Flexplate
Like all small block V-8 engines produced since 1986, the ZZ4 engine has a 3.00" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. Small block V-8 engines produced from 1958 through 1985 had a 3.58" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. This change in bolt circle diameter was made to accommodate a leak-resistant one-piece rear main seal. Due to revisions in the crankshaft design, a ZZ4 engine must have a counterweighted flywheel (or flexplate) for proper balance. The ZZ4 engine includes a flexplate Part number 14088765. Additional flywheels and flexplates are available from the chart below.
Part Number | Outside Diameter | Converter Bolt Pattern | Starter Ring Gear Teeth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
14088765 | 12 3/4" | 10.75" | 153 | For one-piece crank seal |
12554824 | 14" | 11.50" | 168 | Heavy-duty flexplate with increased thickness for one-piece crank seal |
14088761 | 14" | 10.75,11.50" | 168 | For one-piece crank seal |
Part Number | Outside Diameter | Converter Bolt Pattern | Starter Ring Gear Teeth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
14088648 | 14" | 11.0,11.58" | 168 | For one-piece crank seal |
14088646 | 12 3/4" | 10.4,11.00" | 153 | Lightweight nodular iron flywheel, weighs approximately 15 lbs.; for one-piece crank seal |
14088650 | 12 3/4" | 10.4" | 153 | Standard weight flywheel; for one-piece crank seal |
Pilot Bearing
You must install a pilot bearing in the rear of the crankshaft if the engine will be used with a manual transmission. The pilot bearing aligns the transmission input shaft with the crankshaft centerline. A worn or misaligned pilot bearing can cause shifting problems and rapid clutch wear. A roller pilot bearing Part number 14061685 is recommended for this engine. This heavy-duty bearing adds an extra margin of reliability to a high performance drivetrain.
Starter
The ZZ4 does not include a starter. The starter must be matched to flywheel (or flexplate) diameter when installing a ZZ4 engine. Small diameter flywheels are 12 3/4" in diameter, and have starter ring gears with 153 teeth. Large diameter flywheels are 14" in diameter, and have 168 teeth on the starter ring gear. This difference in flywheel diameters requires two different starter housings. Starter noses used with 14" diameter flywheels have two offset bolt holes; starters used with 12 3/4" diameter flywheels have bolt holes that are straight across from each other.
Important: Chevrolet starter motors use special shouldered mounting bolts, which register the starter on the block.
The following starters and hardware can be used with this engine:
| • | 10496870 - Starter, heavy-duty, remanufactured for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 1876552 - Starter, heavy-duty for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 14097278 - Bolt, starter mounting, long, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 14097279 - Bolt, starter mounting, short, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 10455709 - Starter, remanufactured permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/ flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 12606096 - Starter, permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 14037733 - Bolt, starter mounting, inner for 12 3/4" PMGR starter |
| • | 12338064 - Bolt, starter mounting, outer for 12 3/4" PMGR starter; also for 14" PMGR starter (2 required) |
Oil Pan / Filter / Adapter / Dipstick
| • | The ZZ4 engine includes an oil pan part number 12557558. This is a four quart, right-hand dipstick oil pan and gasket. |
| • | The oil dipstick for the ZZ4 engine is on the right-hand (passenger) side of the block. A dipstick for the lefthand (driver) side of the block is available. Check for clearance when replacing the dipstick of an early-model block with a left-hand dipstick. The recommended oil dipstick and oil dipstick tube are Part number 12551144 and Part number 12551154 respectively. This oil dipstick tube bolts to the engine block below the deck surface, and can be used with header-type exhaust systems. |
| • | The ZZ4 engine assembly includes an oil filter adapter and oil filter element (AC # PF 25). A premium oil filter (AC # UPF25) is available for your ZZ4 engine. This has a 100% wire backed synthetic media with 6 micron filtration. An offset oil filter adapter may be installed to provide additional clearance for headers, clutch linkage, and suspension components. This offset oil filter adapter uses a small diameter spin-on filter element. |
| - | 12556204 Offset oil filter adapter |
| - | 88893990 Gasket and seal, oil filter adapter |
| - | 11610405 Washer, oil filter adapter (2 required) |
| - | 14092398 Bolt, oil filter adapter (2 required) |
| - | AC PF52 Filter to fit adapter, spin-on |
12496769 Fast Burn 385 Base--with Aluminum Vortec Heads
Flywheel / Flexplate
Like all small block V-8 engines produced since 1986, the FB385 engine has a 3.00" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. Small block V-8 engines produced from 1958 through 1985 had a 3.58" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. This change in bolt circle diameter was made to accommodate a leak-resistant one-piece rear main seal. Due to revisions in the crankshaft design, a FB385 engine must have a counterweighted flywheel (or flexplate) for proper balance. The FB385 engine includes a flexplate part number 14088765. Additional flywheels and flexplates are available from the chart below.
Part Number | Outside Diameter | Converter Bolt Pattern | Starter Ring Gear Teeth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
14088765 | 12 3/4" | 10.75" | 153 | For one-piece crank seal |
12554824 | 14" | 11.50" | 168 | Heavy-duty flexplate with increased thickness for one-piece crank seal |
14088761 | 14" | 10.75,11.50" | 168 | For one-piece crank seal |
Part Number | Outside Diameter | Converter Bolt Pattern | Starter Ring Gear Teeth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
14088648 | 14" | 11.0,11.58" | 168 | For one-piece crank seal |
14088646 | 12 3/4" | 10.4,11.00" | 153 | Lightweight nodular iron flywheel, weighs approximately 15 lbs.; for one-piece crank seal |
14088650 | 12 3/4" | 10.4" | 153 | Standard weight flywheel; for one-piece crank seal |
Pilot Bearing
You must install a pilot bearing in the rear of the crankshaft if the engine will be used with a manual transmission. The pilot bearing aligns the transmission input shaft with the crankshaft centerline. A worn or misaligned pilot bearing can cause shifting problems and rapid clutch wear. A roller pilot bearing Part number 14061685 is recommended for this engine. This heavy-duty bearing adds an extra margin of reliability to a high performance drivetrain.
Starter
The FB385 does not include a starter. The starter must be matched to flywheel (or flexplate) diameter when installing a FB385 engine. Small diameter flywheels are 12 3/4" in diameter, and have starter ring gears with 153 teeth. Large diameter flywheels are 14" in diameter, and have 168 teeth on the starter ring gear. This difference in flywheel diameters requires two different starter housings. Starter noses used with 14" diameter flywheels have two offset bolt holes; starters used with 12 3/4" diameter flywheels have bolt holes that are straight across from each other.
Important: Chevrolet starter motors use special shouldered mounting bolts, which register the starter on the block.
The following starters and hardware can be used with this engine:
| • | 10496870 - Starter, heavy-duty, remanufactured for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 1876552 - Starter, heavy-duty for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 14097278 - Bolt, starter mounting, long, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 14097279 - Bolt, starter mounting, short, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 10455709 - Starter, remanufactured permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/ flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 12606096 - Starter, permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 14037733 - Bolt, starter mounting, inner for 12 3/4" PMGR starter |
| • | 12338064 - Bolt, starter mounting, outer for 12 3/4" PMGR starter; also for 14" PMGR starter (2 required) |
Oil Pan / Filter / Adapter / Dipstick
| • | The FB385 engine includes an oil pan Part number 12557558 the same pan as the production ZZ4. This is a four quart, right-hand dipstick oil pan and gasket. |
| • | The oil dipstick for the FB385 engine is on the right-hand (passenger) side of the block. A dipstick for the lefthand (driver) side of the block is available. Check for clearance when replacing the dipstick of an early-model block with a left-hand dipstick. The recommended oil dipstick and oil dipstick tube are Part number 12551144 and Part number 12551154 respectively. This oil dipstick tube bolts to the engine block below the deck surface, and can be used with header-type exhaust systems. |
| • | The FB385 engine assembly includes an oil filter adapter and oil filter element (AC # PF 25). A premium oil filter (AC # UPF25) is available for your FB385 engine. This has a 100% wire backed synthetic media with 6 micron filtration. An offset oil filter adapter may be installed to provide additional clearance for headers, clutch linkage, and suspension components. This offset oil filter adapter uses a small diameter spin-on filter element. |
| - | 12556204 Offset oil filter adapter |
| - | 88893990 Gasket and seal, oil filter adapter |
| - | 11610405 Washer, oil filter adapter (2 required) |
| - | 14092398 Bolt, oil filter adapter (2 required) |
| - | AC PF52 Filter to fit adapter, spin-on |
Carburetor / Air Cleaner
| • | A 750 cfm Holley four-barrel carburetor with either mechanical or vacuum operated secondaries and electric choke is recommended for the FB385 engine. GM Performance Parts has a 750 cfm Holley four-barrel carburetor Part number 12485506 with vacuum secondaries available. |
| • | A foam or paper element, low restriction air cleaner should be used to protect the engine from excessive wear and diffuse the air entering the carburetor. The fuel mixture distribution can be upset if no diffuser is used, causing poor power and misfiring at high engine speeds. Always check for adequate hood clearance when installing a new air cleaner. GM Performance Parts has two chrome 14" air cleaner assemblies for single 4 barrel engines. 12342071 is the Classic design and 123420280 is the high performance design. |
Fuel Pump
The FB385 engine does not include a fuel pump. However, it does have a mechanical fuel pump boss with a block off plate installed. The fuel system must be capable of supplying adequate fuel volume at a minimum of 6 psi pressure when the engine is operating at wide open throttle (WOT). A high volume in-line electric fuel pump is available from GM Performance Parts Part number 25115899. This heavy duty pump flows 72 gallons per hour at 6-8 psi outlet pressure.
Headers
A FB385 engine can be equipped with a header exhaust system for maximum performance in applications where a nonproduction exhaust system is legal. For street performance and limited competition applications, the recommended header configuration is 1 3/4" diameter primary pipes, 32 to 36 inches long, with 3" diameter collectors. Use 2 1/2" diameter tailpipes with a balance tube ("H" pipe) and low restriction mufflers.
Accessory Drive Brackets
Two Accessory Drive Kits are available from GM Performance Parts to fit the FB385 engine. P/N 12497698 is used for vehicles with air conditioning and P/N 12497697 is used for vehicles without air conditioning. Please see your GM Performance Parts dealer or visit us on the web at www.gmperformanceparts.com.
Spark Plugs / Spark Plug Wires
| • | The FB385 engine comes with spark plugs Part number 5614210 (AC # MR43LTS). |
| • | When installing the engine in a vehicle originally equipped with a small block V-8 with HEI ignition, standard replacement spark plug wires can be used. High performance 8mm diameter wire sets with the Chevrolet Bow Tie logo or with the GM Performance Parts logo are available from GM Performance Parts for custom installations. The GM Performance Parts logo wire sets are available as Part number 12361056 (135° spark plug boots) and Part number 12361057 (90° spark plug boots). The Chevrolet logo wire sets are Part number 12361050 (135° spark plug boots) and 12361051 (90° spark plug boots). The 135° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires over the valve covers, 90° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires under the exhaust headers. |
Rocker Covers
The FB385 engine comes equipped with black stamped steel, center hold-down bolt rocker covers. A wide variety of valve cover choices are available at your GM Performance Parts dealer or visit us on the web at www.gmperformanceparts.com. Pre-1987 flange mount rocker covers can be installed on the FB385 engine using adapter Part number 24502540. This adapter is machined from billet aluminum, and uses an O-ring seal between the adapter and cylinder head rocker cover rail.
17800393 HT 383E
Flywheel / Flexplate
Like all small block V-8 engines produced since 1986, the HT383E engine has a 3.00" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. Small block V-8 engines produced from 1958 through 1985 had a 3.58" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. This change in bolt circle diameter was made to accommodate a leak-resistant one-piece rear main seal. This HT383 engine includes a 12 ¾" diameter flexplate, part number 14088765. Use flywheel, part number 14088650, with manual transmissions. Also, if using a manual transmission, six bolts, part number 12337973, will be required.
Pilot Bearing
You must install a pilot bearing in the rear of the crankshaft if the engine will be used with a manual transmission. The pilot bearing aligns the transmission input shaft with the crankshaft centerline. A worn or misaligned pilot bearing can cause shifting problems and rapid clutch wear. A roller pilot bearing, part number 14061685, is recommended for this engine. This heavy-duty bearing adds an extra margin of reliability to a high performance drivetrain.
Starter
This HT383E engine does not include a starter. The starter must be matched to the flywheel or flexplate diameter when installing the HT383E engine. Small diameter flywheels are 12-3/4" in diameter and have a starter ring gear with 153 teeth. Large diameter flywheels are 14" in diameter and have 168 teeth on the starter ring gear. This difference in flywheel diameters requires two different starter housing. Starter noses used with 14" diameter flywheel have two offset bolt holes; starters used with 12-3/4" diameter flywheels have bolt holes that are straight across from each other.
Important: Chevrolet starter motors use special shouldered mounting bolts, which register the starter on the block.
The following starters and hardware can be used with this engine:
| • | 10496870 - Starter, heavy-duty, remanufactured for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 1876552 - Starter, heavy-duty for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 14097278 - Bolt, starter mounting, long, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 14097279 - Bolt, starter mounting, short, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 10455709 - Starter, remanufactured permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/ flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 12606096 - Starter, permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 14037733 - Bolt, starter mounting, inner for 12 3/4" PMGR starter |
| • | 12338064 - Bolt, starter mounting, outer for 12 3/4" PMGR starter; also for 14" PMGR starter (2 required) |
Rocker Covers
This HT383E Engine comes equipped with black stamped steel, center hold-down bolt rocker covers. A black composite center hold-down bolt rocker cover is available, part number 12552321-left hand and 12552322-right hand. Also, chrome center hold-down bolt rocker covers with a red Chevrolet Bow Tie logo are available, part number 12355350-left and right hands. Pre-1987 flange mount rocker covers can be installed using adapter part number 24502540. This adapter is machined from billet aluminum and uses and O-ring seal between the adapter and cylinder head rocker cover rail.
Rocker Cover Grommets
The HT383E engine does not come with rocker cover grommets. It is recommended to use grommet part number 3989350 with these rocker covers.
- Install PCV valve, part number 6487779, into the grommet in the rocker cover on the left hand side of the engine.
- Attach one end of the PCV hose to the PCV valve. Attach the other end of the hose as per the vacuum hose routing as shown on the underhood label (or see GM service information).
12499101 HT 383 Base--Performance Engine
Flywheel / Flexplate
Like all small block V-8 engines produced since 1986, the HT383 engine has a 3.00" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. Small block V-8 engines produced from 1958 through 1985 had a 3.58" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. This change in bolt circle diameter was made to accommodate a leak-resistant one-piece rear main seal. This HT383 engine includes a 12 ¾" diameter flexplate, part number 14088765. Use flywheel, part number 14088650, with manual transmissions. Also, if using a manual transmission, six bolts, part number 12337973, will be required.
Pilot Bearing
You must install a pilot bearing in the rear of the crankshaft if the engine will be used with a manual transmission. The pilot bearing aligns the transmission input shaft with the crankshaft centerline. A worn or misaligned pilot bearing can cause shifting problems and rapid clutch wear. A roller pilot bearing, part number 14061685, is recommended for this engine. This heavy-duty bearing adds an extra margin of reliability to a high performance drivetrain.
Starter
This HT383 engine does not include a starter. The starter must be matched to the flywheel or flexplate diameter when installing the HT383 engine. Small diameter flywheels are 12-3/4" in diameter and have a starter ring gear with 153 teeth. Large diameter flywheels are 14" in diameter and have 168 teeth on the starter ring gear. This difference in flywheel diameters requires two different starter housing. Starter noses used with 14" diameter flywheel have two offset bolt holes; starters used with 12-3/4" diameter flywheels have bolt holes that are straight across from each other.
Important: Chevrolet starter motors use special shouldered mounting bolts, which register the starter on the block.
The following starters and hardware can be used with this engine:
| • | 10496870 - Starter, heavy-duty, remanufactured for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 1876552 - Starter, heavy-duty for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 14097278 - Bolt, starter mounting, long, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 14097279 - Bolt, starter mounting, short, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 10455709 - Starter, remanufactured permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/ flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 9000852 Permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) starter for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 14037733 - Bolt, starter mounting, inner for 12 3/4" PMGR starter |
Carburetor/Air cleaner
A 750 cfm four-barrel carburetor with mechanical or vacuum operated secondaries and an electric choke is recommended for the HT383 engine. A foam or paper element, low restriction air cleaner should be used to protect the engine from excessive wear and diffuse the air entering the carburetor. The fuel mixture distribution can be upset if no diffuser is used causing poor power and misfiring at high engine speeds. Always check for adequate hood clearance when installing a new air cleaner. GM Performance Parts has two chromed, 14-inch diameter, open element air cleaner assemblies for single four-barrel carburetors. Part number 12342079 has a plain top and part number 12342071 has a Chevrolet logo. Both of these assemblies are supplied with a 3-inch tall filter element, part number 6421746 (AC# A212cw). A taller 4-inch element is available, part number 8997189 (AC# A698c).
Fuel Pump
| • | This HT383 engine does not include a fuel pump. The fuel system must be capable of supplying adequate fuel volume at a minimum of 6 psi pressure when the engine is operating at wide open throttle (WOT). A high volume, in-line electric fuel pump is available from GM Performance Parts, part number 25115899. This heavy duty pump flows 72 gallons per hour at 6-8 psi outlet pressure. |
| • | Also, the HT383 engine has a provision for a mechanical fuel pump. There are two mechanical fuel pumps available from GM. Part number 12355612 is recommended for street performance. Part number 12355613 is recommended for competition. |
Spark Plugs/Spark Plug Wires
The recommended spark plugs for the HT383 engine are part number 5613611 (AC# R44LTS). These are for general street and performance use. If you plan to use this engine mostly for competition racing, you may want to change to a colder spark plug such as R42LTS. If you are installing the engine in a vehicle originally equipped with a small block V-8 with high energy ignition (HEI), standard replacement spark plug wires can be used. High performance 8mm diameter wire sets with the Chevrolet Bow Tie logo or with the GM Performance Parts logo are available from GM Performance Parts for custom installations. The GM Performance Parts logo wire sets are available as part number 12361056 (135° spark plug boots) and part number 12361057 (90° spark plug boots). The Chevrolet logo wire sets are part number 12361050 (135° spark plug boots) and 12361051 (90° spark plug boots). The 135° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires over the valve covers; 90° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires under the exhaust headers. Spark plug wire looms, part number 12496806, are also available. These six supports are stainless steel with a laser etched Bow Tie and they bolt to the sides of the cylinder heads.
Rocker Covers
This HT383 Engine comes equipped with black stamped steel, center hold-down bolt rocker covers. A black composite center hold-down bolt LT4 type rocker cover is available, part number 12552321-left hand and 12552322- right hand. Also, chrome center hold-down bolt rocker covers with a red Chevrolet Bow Tie logo are available, part number 12355350-left and right hands. Pre-1987 flange mount rocker covers can be installed using adapter part number 24502540. This adapter is machined from billet aluminum and uses and O-ring seal between the adapter and cylinder head rocker cover rail.
Rocker Cover Grommets
The HT383 engine does not come with rocker cover grommets. It is recommended to use grommet part number 3989350 with these rocker covers.
- Install PCV valve, part number 6487779, into the grommet in the rocker cover on the left hand side of the engine.
- Attach one end of the PCV hose, part number 9438373, to the PCV valve. Attach the other end of the hose to the rear port on the carburetor.
Thermostat
It is recommended that the cooling system have a 180°F thermostat, part number 10202456. Also, use thermostat housing, part number 10108470, and gasket, part number 10105135.
Distributor
| • | GM recommends the use of the HEI distributor, part number 93440806, on the HT383 engine. It was used throughout the testing on this and many of their other crate engines and has proven to be very reliable for a performance engine. |
| • | To install the distributor use connector, part number 8917052, to attach the tachometer wire to the distributor. You will also need a distributor hold-down clamp, part number 10096197, and fastener, part number 9442963, to secure the distributor to the intake manifold. When installing the distributor it is recommended to use a "Moly-Lube" type lubricant applied to the distributor gear. Coat the gear generously with the Moly-Lube using a small brush. This lube will aid in the break-in of the distributor gear and camshaft gear upon start up. |
12498772 ZZ383/425--High Performance Engine
Flywheel / Flexplate
Like all small block V-8 engines produced since 1986, the ZZ383 engine has a 3.00" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. Small block V-8 engines produced from 1958 through 1985 had a 3.58" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern. This change in bolt circle diameter was made to accommodate a leak-resistant one-piece rear main seal. This ZZ383 engine includes a 12 ¾" diameter flexplate, part number 14088765. Use flywheel, part number 14088650, with manual transmissions. Also, if using a manual transmission, six bolts, part number 12337973, will be required.
Pilot Bearing
You must install a pilot bearing in the rear of the crankshaft if the engine will be used with a manual transmission. The pilot bearing aligns the transmission input shaft with the crankshaft centerline. A worn or misaligned pilot bearing can cause shifting problems and rapid clutch wear. A roller pilot bearing, part number 14061685, is recommended for this engine. This heavy-duty bearing adds an extra margin of reliability to a high performance drivetrain.
Starter
This ZZ383 engine does not include a starter. The starter must be matched to the flywheel or flexplate diameter when installing the ZZ383 engine. Small diameter flywheels are 12-3/4" in diameter and have a starter ring gear with 153 teeth. Large diameter flywheels are 14" in diameter and have 168 teeth on the starter ring gear. This difference in flywheel diameters requires two different starter housing. Starter noses used with 14" diameter flywheel have two offset bolt holes; starters used with 12-3/4" diameter flywheels have bolt holes that are straight across from each other.
Important: Chevrolet starter motors use special shouldered mounting bolts, which register the starter on the block.
The following starters and hardware can be used with this engine:
| • | 10496870 - Starter, heavy-duty, remanufactured for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 1876552 - Starter, heavy-duty for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate |
| • | 14097278 - Bolt, starter mounting, long, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 14097279 - Bolt, starter mounting, short, for heavy-duty starter |
| • | 10455709 - Starter, remanufactured permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) for 12 3/4" diameter flywheel/ flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 9000852 Permanent magnet gear reduction (PMGR) starter for 14" diameter flywheel/flexplate (10 lb.) |
| • | 14037733 - Bolt, starter mounting, inner for 12 3/4" PMGR starter |
Carburetor/Air cleaner
A 750 or 770 cfm four-barrel carburetor with vacuum operated secondaries and electric choke is recommended for the ZZ383 engine. A foam or paper element, low restriction air cleaner should be used to protect the engine from excessive wear and diffuse the air entering the carburetor. The fuel mixture distribution can be upset if no diffuser is used causing poor power and misfiring at high engine speeds. Always check for adequate hood clearance when installing a new air cleaner. GM Performance Parts has two chromed, 14-inch diameter, open element air cleaner assemblies for single four-barrel carburetors. Part number 12342079 has a plain top and part number 12342071 has a Chevrolet logo. Both of these assemblies are supplied with a 3-inch tall filter element, part number 6421746 (AC# A212cw). A taller 4-inch element is available, part number 8997189 (AC# A698c).
Fuel Pump
| • | This ZZ383 engine does not include a fuel pump. The fuel system must be capable of supplying adequate fuel volume at a minimum of 6 psi pressure when the engine is operating at wide open throttle (WOT). A high volume, in-line electric fuel pump is available from GM Performance Parts, part number 25115899. This heavy duty pump flows 72 gallons per hour at 6-8 psi outlet pressure. |
| • | Also, the ZZ383 engine has a provision for a mechanical fuel pump. There are two mechanical fuel pumps available from GM. Part number 12355612 is recommended for street performance. Part number 12355613 is recommended for competition. |
Spark Plugs/Spark Plug Wires
The recommended spark plugs for the ZZ383 engine are part number 5613611 (AC# R44LTS). These are for general street and performance use. If you plan to use this engine mostly for competition racing, you may want to change to a colder spark plug such as R42LTS. If you are installing the engine in a vehicle originally equipped with a small block V-8 with high energy ignition (HEI), standard replacement spark plug wires can be used. High performance 8mm diameter wire sets with the Chevrolet Bow Tie logo or with the GM Performance Parts logo are available from GM Performance Parts for custom installations. The GM Performance Parts logo wire sets are available as part number 12361056 (135° spark plug boots) and part number 12361057 (90° spark plug boots). The Chevrolet logo wire sets are part number 12361050 (135° spark plug boots) and 12361051 (90° spark plug boots). The 135° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires over the valve covers; 90° spark plug boot sets are recommended for routing the spark plug wires under the exhaust headers. Spark plug wire looms, part number 12496806, are also available. These six supports are stainless steel with a laser etched Bow Tie and they bolt to the sides of the cylinder heads.
Rocker Covers
This ZZ383 Engine comes equipped with black stamped steel, center hold-down bolt rocker covers. A black composite center hold-down bolt LT4 type rocker cover is available, part number 12552321-left hand and 12552322- right hand. Also, chrome center hold-down bolt rocker covers with a red Chevrolet Bow Tie logo are available, part number 12355350-left and right hands. Pre-1987 flange mount rocker covers can be installed using adapter part number 24502540. This adapter is machined from billet aluminum and uses and O-ring seal between the adapter and cylinder head rocker cover rail. Please check fitment of rocker covers for clearance between the cover and the roller rocker arm. Not all covers will work with roller rocker part number 12310838.
Rocker Cover Grommets
The ZZ383 engine does not come with rocker cover grommets. It is recommended to use grommet part number 3989350 with these rocker covers.
- Install PCV valve, part number 6487779, into the grommet in the rocker cover on the left hand side of the engine.
- Attach one end of the PCV hose, part number 9438373, to the PCV valve. Attach the other end of the hose to the rear port on the carburetor.
Intake Manifold
This ZZ383 High Performance engine does not come with an intake manifold installed. GM performed testing of the ZZ383 High Performance Engine using a single plane GM Vortec Intake Manifold, part number 12496822. The advertised power and torque was achieved using this single plane intake manifold. This manifold was designed for optimum horsepower and torque. Also available is a dual plane intake manifold, part number 12366573, that will provide more under hood clearance as it is a shorter manifold. Use intake gasket, part number 89017465, with either intake manifold. Use 8 intake manifold fasteners, part number 12550027.
Thermostat
It is recommended that the cooling system have a 180°F thermostat, part number 10202456. Also, use thermostat housing, part number 10108470, and gasket, part number 10105135.
Distributor
| • | GM recommends the use of the HEI distributor, part number 93440806, on the ZZ383 engine. It was used throughout the testing on this and many of their other crate engines and has passed various tests. |
| • | To install the distributor use connector, part number 8917052, to attach the tachometer wire to the distributor. You will also need a distributor hold-down clamp, part number 10096197, and fastener, part number 9442963, to secure the distributor to the intake manifold. When installing the distributor it is recommended to use a "Moly-Lube" type lubricant applied to the distributor gear. Coat the gear generously with the Moly-Lube using a small brush. This lube will aid in the break-in of the distributor gear and camshaft gear upon start up. |
Headers
The ZZ383 High Performance engine should be installed with a pair of high performance headers for maximum performance. The headers used during development of the ZZ383 had 1.75" diameter primary tubes. Primary tubes were approximately 32.00" in length and had 3.00" diameter collectors. Using a similar combination in your application, along with a performance exhaust system with a balance tube ("H" pipe) and low restriction mufflers, will provide you with optimum performance from your ZZ383 High Performance engine.
