Engine Build Compression Related Questions

[idealer]

I have a Mason Motorsports - Pro Runner with a 4.3 V6 (Stocker) in it. I am in the process of building a performance motor for it and am currently getting ready to order the pistons. I am on the fence on whether or not to go race or pump gas. On one had I want to go pump gas to keep it super reliable, and on the other hand I spent all this money on parts why not try to get the most out of it. What are your opinions...

Truck

2900lb
Culhane 400
7200/6 Class

Engine So Far

4.3 Bowtie Block 4.155 bore
3.4 Forged Odd Fire Crank
Carrillo Rods
GM 23* Aluminum Heads
Raised Runner Intake

[scottm]

Power is good. Racing is expensive.

Whatever you decide, the cam and compression have to match, meaning long duration high hp cams require higher compression, and lower compression pistons require less duration. Racier cams also require higher stall converters and lower gears.

[SJredranger]

I always say, ya don't build a race car and complain about the price of race gas.....ALL OR NOTHING!!!

[idealer]

I said **BAN ME****BAN ME****BAN ME****BAN ME** it, I had x $ in the motor might as well get my moneys worth... plus the cams I had called for higher compression

[Tyler Scott]

Somtimes its more reliable to have a motor that barley needs race gas, than a motor thats on the edge of not runing race gas. For example, A motor thats 10.5:1 maxed out timing on 91 octain might not be as reliable as a motor thats 11 or 12:1 on 110 race gas making the same power, and isn't maxed out on timing. I say go 12:1 and run a basic 110, like Sonoco or VP110

[mebuildit]

It all depends on your area of driving. If you are out in the boonies and the only place around is regular gas then I'd say go with pump gas. If you are serious about every last HP factor then go for the race gas. Just remember the harder you work your engine the sooner it has to come apart to get freshed up. Keep it simple is my philosophy, plus it doesn't just limit you to "race gas" only. You will never know when that time will come and you have to put regular gas in it to get you home. Then see how the engine reacts. You might do more damage to the engine that way too.

Just my .02¢