I have a running, lightly modified tall deck 427 . Is it worth rebuilding with performance parts for an older Firebird? Car would not be for full time racing and would be street driven. Should I take the easy way out and sell this engine to fund a "normal" and lighter big block? The tall deck motor has been very strong and relaible in a 1/2 ton 1981 chevy pickup.
Any opinions would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Cory Ward

 

As long as the engine compartment can handle the tall deck block, there's nothing wrong with it.

Has it ever been built before or is it stock? Since the tall deck is .400 taller, rebuilding it needs new pistons and con rods to compensate for the extra length. Stock tall deck pistons have an extra compression ring. That's why the pistons and deck are longer. By using standard 427/454 pistons and a .400 longer con rod you can get a better engine. The 427 block can also be bored out .125". Using a 454 crank and .125 overbore you can get 481 cubic inches. Using a 4.125" stroker crank and a .125" overbore you can get 496 cubic inches out of it.

 

I did a rebuild on the engine about 9 years ago. All stock except headers, carb,and a slightly lumpier cam.
Next rebuild will involve a lot of aluminimum parts to help the weight situation.
Are there any good books out there on swaping cranks and other parts between 454 & 427t.
Thanks,
Cory

 

There's a bunch of books available. The one I like is called "Chevrolet Big Block Parts Interchange Manual" published by S.A.Design. Check your local speed shops.