Hello,
I am looking at what is supposed to be a 454.  On the back of the block, on the drivers side just in front of the bell housing flange, it says Hi Perf Pass.  Any idea what this might mean?  I have always assumed that a 454 was just a punched out big block with low compression polution motor.  
Thanks,
Wink  

The notation HI-PERF PASS means that it is probably a two bolt main and had or does have large oval or peanut port heads. I had a couple of four bolt blocks that had HI-PERF PASS, but unusual. The best way to tell is to look. 454-427 blocks are the same exept, 454 block has clearance notches for extra stroke lenght. 454-427 both used 4.250 bore. The compression was kept low on these engines, (as low as 7.5-1, with dished pistons) from about 1973 on. A piston swap with some head work can easily bring you to a very steetable 9.5-1 comp. ratio. By the way, you are looking at the finest motor in the Chevy arsenal!  

I don't think any 454 is a "punched-out" motor because it's a stroked 427...

And I don't think the LS6 or even the LS5 was a doggy "pollution" motor.  

Or perhaps...When that big bad 454 sets you back in the seat and keeps you there, and you know you left on the guy in the other lane, and never saw him the whole way down the track. That big grin comes on your face and you say to yourself, I just made a "hi perf pass".  

Never thught of it like that. It sounds so sweet.  

Guys,
It was not my intent to dump on big block chevys.  I have been away from drag racing for thirty years.  I find myself back in due to a promise I made my son when he got his license.  I told him that if I caught him speeding or street racing that I would kick his butt and take his car and cancel his insurance.  However, if he felt the need for speed, I would help him do it right.  My part is that his car launch straight, roll straight, not catch fire from a bad wiring or fuel system install, and stop at the end of the track.  He has to make it go fast.  Thirty years ago I was a big block Chevelle guy.  That was before the 454 and early 427s.  Anyway my boy is a FORD guy.  Don't know how I screwed up raising him but I intend to whip his 88 Super coupe 5.0 with my Nova but I will have to ask a few questions if you all can help.
Thanks Wink  

You raised a FORD lover, oh my god - you are a horrible parent...

 

Ford lover uh, maybe you all should go for group counciling. Feel free to ask whatever, glad to give advise. Especially when it comes to smokin a Ford.  

With enough money, you can get one right. I saw this Mustang at our local track last night. He was running in a heads up with a 4.70 index, 1/8mi.

I'd say those hemi heads were pricey