Re: Help with 383 Build
As long as you are tuned well and dont overdo the timing Im sure you are going to be fine. That bigger cam is going to help you out here as well.
Yes, he needs to calculate the dynamic compression with his cam selection.
IMHO, the build is leaning more toward a performance build vs an extreme towing application, which this is more equivelent to. I don't think it has reached the point where it will absolutly be an issue, but having a powerband that won't be fully utilized is just a waste in my eyes.
If he is running T4 ignition or a T5 with no knock sensor, has a good likelyhood of not hearing the detenation until it is too late. In a car/truck with the motor in front of you, it is much more apparent. Back in the boat engine compartment, (buried on a cruiser), along with wind noise, etc, not so much.
FWIW: The Merc 377 ring gap spec is:
Top & 2nd Ring: Production: 0.016 - 0.026 (0.40-0.66), service: High limit +- 0.001
Oil: Production: 0.010 - 0.050 (0.25- 1.27), service: High limit +- 0.001