Building Strong Pontiac Combination For The Street

Pontiac engines have always had a reputation for being robust and powerful, making them a popular choice among car enthusiasts. If you are looking to build a Pontiac combination that is both strong and suitable for street use, there are several factors to consider.

The Importance of a Strong Foundation

When building a high-performance Pontiac engine, it is crucial to start with a strong foundation. This includes selecting a sturdy engine block that can handle the increased power and stress that comes with performance upgrades. A popular choice for many Pontiac enthusiasts is the Pontiac 400 block, known for its durability and ability to handle high horsepower.

Once the block is selected, it is essential to ensure that it is properly machined, honed, and cleaned before any assembly takes place. This will ensure that all engine components fit together seamlessly and function optimally.

Building a Strong Pontiac Combination for the Street: Sleepers and Street Warriors by Sandoval Performance

by William AE Ford (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4626 KB
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Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Choosing the Right Pistons and Rods

When it comes to selecting pistons for your Pontiac engine, there are multiple options available. However, for a street application, it is recommended to choose performance-oriented pistons that provide a good balance between power and reliability.

Forged pistons are a popular choice among street enthusiasts due to their superior strength and ability to handle increased horsepower. They are less prone to cracking or breaking under high-stress conditions, making them ideal for a strong Pontiac combination.

In addition to selecting the right pistons, it is also vital to choose the appropriate connecting rods. For a street-focused Pontiac engine, forged steel connecting rods are an excellent choice. They offer increased strength and durability, allowing the engine to withstand the demands of aggressive street driving.

Optimizing Cylinder Heads and Camshaft

The cylinder heads play a critical role in the overall performance of the engine. Choosing the right cylinder heads can significantly impact power output and drivability. For a street-driven Pontiac, it is advisable to select cylinder heads that offer a good balance between airflow and compression.

There are various aftermarket cylinder heads available for Pontiac engines, offering improved airflow, larger valves, and enhanced combustion chamber design. It is important to research and select heads that align with your performance goals and the specific Pontiac engine you are building.

In conjunction with the cylinder heads, the camshaft selection is pivotal in achieving the desired performance characteristics. For street applications, a camshaft with a good balance of duration and lift is recommended. This will ensure optimal power across a broad RPM range, delivering strong acceleration and drivability.

Ensuring Proper Fuel and Ignition System

A strong Pontiac combination also requires a reliable fuel and ignition system. Upgrading to high-flow fuel injectors and a performance fuel pump can provide the necessary fuel delivery to meet the increased demands of the engine.

Additionally, upgrading to an aftermarket ignition system, such as a performance distributor and ignition coil, can improve ignition timing and spark strength. This will result in better combustion and overall performance.

Building a strong Pontiac combination for the street requires careful consideration of various factors, including selecting a strong foundation, choosing the right pistons and rods, optimizing cylinder heads and camshaft, and ensuring a reliable fuel and ignition system. By following these guidelines and utilizing high-quality components, you can create a robust and powerful Pontiac engine that delivers an exhilarating street-driving experience.

Building a Strong Pontiac Combination for the Street: Sleepers and Street Warriors by Sandoval Performance

by William AE Ford (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4626 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	90 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

This book, the second from Sandoval Performance, takes a look at reliable engine and transmission combinations ranging from mild to wild; from a diminutive 350 all the way up to a huge 488 cubic inches while retaining the stock factory block! Keeping compression, rpm, and valve lift conservative is the key. With that said, people won't look at the Pontiac 350 the same after this! This book actually goes a little deeper and focuses not only on the engine, but also explores different torque converter and transmission options.