Have you ever dreamed of squeezing more power out of your classic Chevy small-block engine? Imagine turning your reliable 350 cubic inch V8 into a tire-shredding monster. Many enthusiasts hit a wall when they try to upgrade. They want that extra muscle, but the world of stroker kits for the 350 can seem confusing. Which components fit? What performance gains can you really expect? It feels overwhelming trying to pick the perfect 383 stroker kit.
We understand that frustration. You need clear answers to build the engine you always wanted. This deep dive cuts through the noise. We will explain exactly what a 383 stroker kit does and why it’s the best path to serious horsepower and torque. You will learn the key parts that make the magic happen without needing an engineering degree.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly what to look for in a quality kit, avoiding costly mistakes. Ready to unlock the hidden potential hiding inside your 350 block? Let’s explore the ultimate guide to choosing the right 383 stroker kit for your build.
Top 383 Stroker Kit For 350 Recommendations
- Click ON CORRECT OVER SIZE NEEDED BEFORE PLACING IN CART
- For 3.750" stroke crankshafts. USES 5.700" rod Length
- 350 SBC engines using a 400 crankshaft
- For Blocks bored .030 over size
- INCREASED PEAK HORSEPOWER AND BROADER TORQUE RANGE over stock camshafts
- FITS 1957-1985 small block Chevy engines such as 262, 283, 307, 327, 350, 383 (stroker), 400 and others using the popular platform
- SPECIFICATIONS:Lift: 0.488"/0.488" , Duration @ 0.050": 234°/234° , Advertised Duration: 292°/292° , Lobe Separation: 114°
- POWER BAND RPM RANGE is 3,000 RPM to 6,200 RPM
- MADE IN USA with high quality materials and assembly
- Chevy Small Block Pulley Kit - V-belt (350, 283, 302, 327, 305, and 400)
- Made in the USA from 6061-T6 Billet Aluminum
- Designed for engines with Long Water Pump
- Single Groove Alternator and Water Pump Pulleys, Two Groove Crankshaft Pulley
- Give Your Engine the Strong American Made Pulleys That It Deserves!
- This rebuild kit kit has all the parts you need to freshen up that worn engine. These parts are manufactured directly from only high quality companies with ISO, QS & TS quality systems in place. These are not cheap Chinese parts, this is a quality kit that will last.
- This rebuild kit will include: Full Gasket Set, 10:1 Flat-Top Pistons, Piston Rings, Main/Rod/Cam Bearings, 3pc Timing Set, High-Volume Oil Pump, Stage-3 HP Camshaft (Lift:480/480 Duration:232/232 C/L Angle:108), Lifters, Freeze Plugs, Valve Stem Seals
- SIZES AVAILABLE: Pistons & Rings:STD, 020, 030, 040, 060 --- Rod/Main Bearings:STD, 010, 020, 030, 040
- THIS KIT COVERS TRUCK/VAN/SUV ENGINES ONLY. AFTER YOU ORDER YOU NEED TO SEND US A MESSAGE LETTING US KNOW WHAT SIZE OF PARTS YOU WANT. THANKS!
- High-Performance Lift (.480”/.480”): Featuring a substantial .480” lift on both Intake and Exhaust, this Stage 3 profile forces maximum air and fuel into the combustion chamber. Why Buy It: This aggressive lift is the key to unlocking big horsepower numbers in the mid-to-upper RPM range, giving you the passing power and strip performance stock cams can't touch.
- 【Reliable Quality】: This chrome steel hex head bolt kit is made of chrome steel material. They are abrasion-resistance and corrosion-resistance, durable and long service life for the car engine. Each part will be tested at least twice before sold on the line to ensure that all Cover Bolt Sets reach the quality control standards.
- 【High Performance】: Our chrome valve cover bolts are manufactured in accordance with standard specifications and strictly following factory quality control. Professional manufacturing, high precision, stable characteristics and high reliability. It is also easy to use, saving you time and effort.
- 【Easy to Install and Use】: It is very easy to install, you can easily complete the installation without complicated tools. Just screw them on your tire valve with your hands. The inner threaded part would un thread to give the length to go through the alum covers and a thick gasket.
- 【Compatibility】: Engine valve cover bolt set is compatible with 283 305 327 350 383 engine. They an be good replacement for old or broken valve cover accessories. They are vehicle specific product, please make sure your car model before ordering.
- 【Package Includes】: You will receive 8 pcs chrome valve cover bolts. The quantity is enough for your daily use and other needs. Car stud nuts are small and easy to lose. They can replace old, damaged or lost valve cover bolt. Extra ones can be shared with family and friends.
- Maximum "Pro-Street" Sound (107 LSA): Featuring the aggressive 107-degree Lobe Separation Angle and massive overlap, this cam produces a radical, earth-shaking idle. Why Buy It: It is the closest you can get to the sound of a 900-horsepower race engine while still using a hydraulic flat tappet system. It guarantees you are the loudest car at the show.
- THIS LISTING WILL INCLUDE:
- 1)AUTHENTIC COMP CAM 12-602-4 BIG MUTHA THUMPR 243/257 HYDRAULIC CAMSHAFT - Hydraulic Flat Cam for Chevrolet Small Block 262-400. Street/strip, needs 9.5:1 compression, 2800+ stall, intake gears and headers, very rough idle.
- 16) ENGINETECH HIGH-PERFORMANCE HYDRAULIC LIFTERS
- 1) 3-PC DOUBLE ROLLER TIMING SET - True double roller. 3 key crank sprocket. 4 degree crank offset.
Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect 383 Stroker Kit for Your 350 Chevy
Thinking about giving your classic 350 small-block Chevy engine a big boost? A 383 stroker kit is the answer! This kit lets you increase the engine’s size, giving you more power and torque. But choosing the right one takes knowing what to look for. This guide helps you pick the best kit for your project.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a 383 stroker kit, certain parts matter most. These components work together to make more power.
1. Crankshaft Material and Design
The crankshaft is the heart of the stroker kit. Look closely at what it’s made from. For street use, nodular iron cranks offer good strength and value. If you plan on serious racing or high horsepower (over 550 hp), forged steel is the superior choice. Forged steel handles much more stress.
2. Connecting Rods
Rods connect the pistons to the crank. You need strong rods. I-beam rods are common and very strong for most builds. H-beam rods are even stronger, often used in high-performance applications. Make sure the rods match the horsepower goal.
3. Piston Specs
Pistons determine compression ratio and weight. Look for pistons made from hypereutectic or forged aluminum. Hypereutectic is great for street performance. Forged pistons are lighter and stronger for racing, but they cost more. Compression ratio is vital; 9.5:1 to 10.5:1 works well for pump gas builds.
4. Camshaft Profile
The camshaft dictates how your engine runs. Street performance needs a mild cam with good vacuum. Race engines need aggressive cams. Ensure the cam grind matches the intended use (e.g., street, strip, or towing).
Important Materials and Components
The quality of the materials directly affects how long your new engine lasts. Always prioritize strength.
- Crankshaft: Nodular Iron (Good) or Forged Steel (Best).
- Rods: 4340 Forged Steel is the gold standard for strength.
- Pistons: Hypereutectic (Street/Mild Performance) or Forged (High Performance/Racing).
- Bearings: High-quality performance bearings (like Clevite or King) prevent premature failure.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good kits include features that boost performance. Bad kits often cut corners on these details.
Quality Boosters:
Kits that include balanced components greatly improve engine life. A dynamically balanced rotating assembly reduces vibration. Also, kits that specify the correct ring gap and bearing clearance straight out of the box save builders time and frustration. Good machining quality is always a plus.
Quality Reducers:
Cheap, unbranded parts significantly reduce quality. If the crank is cast iron instead of nodular iron or forged steel, avoid it. Thin-walled pistons or weak connecting rods will fail under high RPMs or high boost. Never buy a kit where the components are not matched or balanced.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who is this kit for? Your intended use changes the perfect kit choice.
Street Cruiser/Weekend Warrior:
These users want reliable power and good street manners. A kit with a nodular iron crank, hypereutectic pistons (around 9.8:1 compression), and a mild hydraulic roller cam offers excellent torque right off idle. This setup feels great on the street and runs well on 91 octane fuel.
Drag Racing/Serious Performance:
Racers demand peak power. They need a forged steel crank, forged pistons, and stronger connecting rods. These kits often feature higher compression ratios (11.0:1+) and aggressive solid roller camshafts. These engines require more frequent maintenance but deliver huge horsepower numbers.
10 FAQs About 383 Stroker Kits for 350 Chevy
Q: What exactly does a 383 stroker kit do?
A: It swaps out the stock crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons for longer parts. This increases the engine’s displacement from 350 cubic inches to 383 cubic inches, making more power.
Q: Do I need to machine my 350 block for a stroker kit?
A: Yes, almost all 383 stroker kits require you to “clearance” the stock 350 block. The longer stroke of the 383 crank hits the stock cylinder walls. A machine shop handles this easily.
Q: Can I use my old 350 heads with a 383 stroker kit?
A: You can, but it is not recommended for best results. New, better-flowing cylinder heads improve the power gains significantly, especially with the extra air the 383 moves.
Q: What type of fuel should I run with a 383 stroker?
A: Most street-friendly 383 kits (around 10:1 compression) run great on premium pump gas (91 or 93 octane). High-compression race setups might need race gas or ethanol.
Q: How much horsepower gain can I expect?
A: Gains vary based on the cam and heads, but a good street 383 build often adds 50 to 100 horsepower over a stock 350.
Q: Is a forged steel crank worth the extra money?
A: If you plan on revving the engine high (over 6,500 RPM) or running forced induction (turbo/supercharger), yes, the forged steel crank is much safer.
Q: What is the most important balancing act in the kit?
A: The rotating assembly (crankshaft, rods, and pistons) must be balanced together. This minimizes harmful engine vibration.
Q: Will a 383 stroker fit in my existing 350 engine bay?
A: Yes. Since the block casting is the same, the 383 physically fits into any vehicle that originally held a 350 small-block Chevy.
Q: What parts are typically included in a complete kit?
A: A complete kit usually contains the crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, piston rings, wrist pins, and a full set of high-performance engine bearings.
Q: How does the stroker affect my oil pressure?
A: Because the 383 spins faster and moves more volume, you might need to install a higher volume oil pump to ensure proper oil pressure, especially at idle.