C8.3 drawbacks
I have pursued the project of building a C8. 3 for powering a little sled like a Dodge. The drawbacks did not seem so bad at first, but quickly became too much. They were:
1. The length of the block was way too much for any Dodge pickup platform. It would have meant busting through the firewall and building a little doghouse type thing.
2. The weight - 1500 lbs dry. This may not seem like much but the upgrades needed were demanding - this engine is 1/3 heavier than the B5. 9.
3. After speaking with lots of mechanics, the C8. 3 broke down more often and was a big pain in the rear to work on. They didn't give specifics, but all had much more difficulty than with the 5. 9. All disliked that motor.
Again, just a couple of cents worth, but I too think that a stock 500hp/1200lbft would be AWESOME.
Bombs Away
Fritz