505 HP Small Block Chevy (SBC) Engine Overview

General Description

Typical Engine Specs (505 HP Build Example)

Component

Typical Specification

Engine Type

Chevrolet Small Block V8

Displacement

406–434 cu in (6.6–7.1 L)

Block Material

Cast iron or aftermarket aluminum (Dart, Brodix, etc.)

Bore x Stroke

~4.125” × 3.750” (varies by stroker)

Compression Ratio

10.5:1 – 11.5:1 (pump gas to race fuel)

Horsepower

~505 HP @ 6,000–6,500 rpm

Torque

~500–520 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm

Camshaft

Hydraulic roller or solid roller, 0.550–0.600” lift

Heads

Aluminum performance heads (AFR, Dart, Trick Flow, Brodix)

Intake Manifold

High-rise single-plane (e.g., Edelbrock Victor Jr.)

Carburetion/Fuel

750–850 CFM carb or EFI throttle body

Ignition

HEI or MSD electronic ignition system

Exhaust

Long-tube headers, 1⅞” – 2” primaries

Oil System

High-volume oil pump with 7 qt. pan

Fuel Type

Premium unleaded (91–93 octane) or E85/race fuel depending on compression

Performance Notes

Street/Strip build: Excellent balance of power and reliability.

• 505 HP SBC usually hits 12:1 AFR tuning on premium pump gas.

• Estimated ¼ mile: 11.0–11.5 sec in a 3,000 lb car (proper setup).

• Rev limit: 6,500–7,000 rpm.

DIY / Industrial Setup

If you’re doing a DIY build or installation, you’ll need:

• Precision torque wrench and dial bore gauge.

• Degree wheel for cam timing.

• Engine stand and hoist.

• Proper break-in procedure for roller cam and rings.

• Dyno tuning or wideband O2 setup for carb/EFI tuning.