AMC Engine Conversion

[Dover78]

Ok, I've decided to scrap (not really) the 2b-304 out of my Javelin and go for the gusto with a 401. I have had no luck finding a 401 for a decent price, but I do have a line on a 360 for only around $50-$100. Here is the part I need help on. I don't know if the info I have is correct, so I could use some help sorting fact from fiction. If I'm correct all the AMC engines had the same block. So all I'd have to do is have the 360's bore taken out to 4.165" and put a 401 crank and heads on it and I'd have a 401. Obviously I know I'd have to put the proper pistons and rods in it too. What I need to know is if there is anything I'm missing or if I'm wrong about anything.

[74runner]

look for an old jeep with a 401, you can useually pick those up pretty cheep

[Dover78]

Thanks man. I already knew that they were the same engines though. I haven't been able to find any. I really don't want to hit a salvage yard because with the winters around here, any salvage engine I find is probably going to be in pretty rough shape.

[Kidjavelin]

I posted this over on the other site a little while ago, so if it sounds redundant that's why....

Wrong. The blocks are not all the same. The 401 has a different one, has thicker walls to allow for a bigger bore and waaay more material in the main webs to support 4 bolt main caps. The 304 and 360 aren't even the same block, cylinder wall thickness again. That's why they have the displacement cast onto the sides.

The crank from a 401 will fit into a 360 block, but you have to use 401 rods with it as they are wider than 360 rods I think.

Go with the 360, you can make just about the same amount of power with it at a reasonable cost.

BTW, 401 and 360 heads are the same thing...

John