I'll throw my two cents worth in on the 4.0L -- and basically agree with the others. For another 10-20 hp get a 4.0L head and bolt that on. The triangular ports on the distributor side need to be filled (they were to rinse sand out, no matching ports on block) because they sit very close to the edge of the block (the 4.0L block is about 1/8" wider on top). Easy to do -- fill with epoxy, or drill for 3/4" freeze plugs. Some people have drilled and tapped for pipe plugs. Then just bolt it on! The 1980 intake and exhaust can be used, with some mods. Best to use a 4.0L exhaust manifold though. The 4.0L heads are pretty common -- if your head needs rebuilding I'd switch, otherwise it may not be worth it. Do you need 10-20 more hp? A 4.9L stroker is costly to build. A 4.5-4.7L costs little more than a stock rebuild. A budget stroker is just a 4.0L block/head/pistons with 258 crank and rods -- and a carefully selected camshaft to make it run right with the stock computer. You need to limit "running compression" to close to stock. That means using a high overlap cam (compared to stock 4.0L or 258) to reduce cylinder pressure. The various stroker sites will list the recommended cams. Otherwise you need to have custom pistons or modify stock pistons (deeper dish) to lower static compression to 9:1 or less (stock 4.0L is 8.7:1). The 4.0L rods can be used, but require custom pistons. There's a little better rod/bore ratio, and some slight improvement in piston speed/wear, but no noticeable reason to use 4.0L over 258 rods. Custom pistons and correct quench height can get you 10-20 more ponies, but cost is much more (around $2000 more). Just worry about compression and get 250-260 hp in stead of 270-280. I run a 250-260 hp 4.6L, have for about five years now. 4.5L=stock 4.0L bore, 4.6L=+0.030". 4.7L=+0.060". Have a block sonic checked before going to 0.060"!! A 4.9L is +0.060" and an offset ground crank for a bit more stroke. _______________________________________________ Amc-list mailing list Amc-list@xxxxxxxxxxxx http://www.amc-list.com/mailman/listinfo/amc-list