AMC 360 vs. 401

[fsjbob]

I've got an '83 Wagoneer Ltd. with a 360 that's a little tired. This Waggy is our family road-trip vehicle so I'm looking to build an engine that has good power, lots of torque for towing a travel trailer and reliable. I don't need a speed demon.

What's the better option - rebuild the 360 or find a 401 and rebuild that?

[fifesjeep]

I'm all about the 401... If you can find one that's worth rebuilding... Good luck on the search.

[ironman_gq]

probably less expensive to rebuild the 360 unless you already have a 401 to use. They both make pretty good power and should do everything you want if you build em right.

[AMX69PHATTY]

Other than the cost of the 401 core, going for as much as $800,
pretty sure it cost the same to rebuild a 401 as it does a 360.
Be sure to get the flexplate and dampener with the 401.
They do not interchange with the 360.

:-|

[fsjbob]

Is there any truth to a 360 being easier and cheaper to build vs a 401?

[Rhinolined360]

you already have the 360... build it up

[Henry Lavrenz]

For a DD I would not get all cought up in the "401" thing. I say unless you'r building for high HP the difference is 41 cubic inchs' and thats all. A 360 can give plenty of power for what you want. money best spent is on good pistons - not stock replacements - but something with the correct CR and a .035" to .040" quench area that matches the head. Most likely a KB or J&E, and forged is not needed either. Do a search on RV cams or post a direct Q on cams. I have done several 360 builds with the same thoughts and found that the ignition and carb / intake manifolds need to be setup or upgraded. I'm not saying replace everything with Edy' this or that, but just make sure things are in the correct tune or up to par. If you can in the area you live, I would remove some of the old emission control junk that isnot working anyway. Tubing headers can really wake up any AMC v-8 because of the great heads they have. Just keep in mind headers need maintenance like re-torqeing the bolts and gasket trouble. And if all else - turbocharge the dog. Take care Hankrod

[ironman_gq]

look here for cams http://englecams.com/catalog/search_results.php

[jeepsr4ever]

I agree...a simple cam, intake and carb swap cam mean alot more power and a much happier jeep.

[frenchy]

I chickened out of the 360 cam upgrade (for now) :smile:
But did go with performer intake, truck avenger carb (670 CFM)
Headman hedders, Flex-a-lite electric Fan, HEI Distrib...

It's not all setup and installed yet, but would this be equivalent to a stock 401 ?

[fsjbob]

Decision made - I'm building the 360 that's in the Wagoneer. The goal is to build a strong, reliable engine for DD and towing duties for family road trips. I'll be going with:
- new carb (Edelbrock 600cfm or 650cfm?)
- new pistons and boring
- new RV cam
- new ignition system (MDS)
- new double roller timing chain and cover with oil bypass
- upgrade to new type oil filter

In the interest of safety I'll probably upgrade to rear disc brakes, hydroboost and carbon metallic pads. Lots of go power doesn't mean anything if I can't stop safely when I need to - especially if I'm towing with the family in the Waggy.

Thanks for the information, everyone. If you've got any suggestions on the above I'd appreciate it.

[fsjbob]

P.S. - holy crap that NEWBIE avatar is huge

[ironman_gq]

gotta let everyone know your new. It'll go away quick if you keep helping others :lo1l: