We knew that one of the biggest horsepower limiters of all '87-'95 vintage Chevy trucks and SUVs was their throttle-body fuel-injection setup (TBI). Other than carburetors, TBI is the least effective way to feed fuel to an engine. Throttle-body injection uses two injectors placed above the throttle blades in the air valve. The fuel, after leaving the injector tip, hits these throttle blades. This prevents complete atomization and creates flow restrictions for the fuel that does remain suspended in the air stream, resulting in uneven mixture and distribution. This uneven distribution dramatically reduces performance and lowers fuel efficiency. This ultimately results in sluggish throttle response and overall performance. So we contacted Edelbrock to see if any other fuel-injection options were available for our stroker engine. Luckily for us, they offer what's called the Performer Multipoint EFI conversion systems (Kit No. 3501). This system was designed for all '87-'95 Chevy/GMC trucks with the 5.7L engine. This simple and effective conversion to multipoint fuel injection (MPI) includes the intake manifold, fuel injectors, high-flowing fuel rails, and all the necessary fuel lines. It works with the stock computer and features a CARB E.O. number to ensure smog compliance. With MPI, fuel is injected directly towards each intake valve for improved distribution and better efficiency. This system is calibrated for use with stock compression, a stock cam and heads, or as shown here, Edelbrock's cam (PN 3702) and heads (PN 60859). We elected to run Edelbrock's brand name parts because they have all been tuned specifically to work with the Performer MPI conversion system and will likely deliver the best results.
The Performer Multipoint EFI System has two CNC-machined aluminum fuel rails and eight Pico injectors (19 lb/hr @ 45 psi) that spray fuel directly into the cylinder head for improved efficiency and a noticeable gain in performance. The fuel rails feature a 91/416-inch-inner-diameter fuel passage, and a flow-through design with 31/48-inch pipe thread ports on each end. With this system, air is the only thing that flows through the throttle body and manifold, so proper atomization is no longer an issue. When the air combines with the fuel at the intake ports, it is traveling at a greater velocity and improves mixture inside the combustion chamber. This means you get more power from every drop of fuel. The results: Maximum performance, improved fuel economy, and crisp throttle response. All Edelbrock EFI systems use injectors that are angled towards the cylinder head port. This provides superior fuel dispersion for more horsepower and better throttle response off-idle and at part throttle. All necessary hardware is included with the kit.
We also sourced a new high-flow water pump from Edelbrock. We like this pump because it features better flow numbers over traditional aftermarket beltdriven pumps and has a simple O-ring sealing surface to help prevent leaks. This particular water pump also features an adjustable cam stop to prevent cam walk. These pumps are available in one of four finishes:
(1) As-Cast-natural satin finish;
(2) Polished-traditional good looks;
(3) what Edelbrock calls PermaStar Finish, a beautiful dark-looking chrome finish, which Edelbrock claims is as durable as a powdercoated finish; and (4) also available, the new EnduraShine finish. EnduraShine matches the brilliant luster of polished aluminum but with the durability of a powdercoated finish. It resists discoloration from heat and has a protective clear top coat which enhances polished aluminum for a fade-free, shiny appearance.
Edelbrock uses one-piece,...
Edelbrock uses one-piece, swirl-polished, hardened-tip stainless steel valves with 111/432-inch undercut stems for increased flow. Manganese-bronze guides, hardened ductile iron seats, and two-ring positive oil control seals complete the package. These heads come with valves fully assembled by Edelbrock, along with the proper valve springs allowing up to 6,500 rpm without issues. As you can see here, our intake valves were every bit of 2 inches in diameter.
Here you can see where Edelbrock...
Here you can see where Edelbrock marks the E.O. number on each head, easily visible during smog inspections. Cast at the Edelbrock Foundry and machined at their California manufacturing facility, these U.S.-built heads are consistently superior when it comes to value for the dollar spent.
This photo shows how each...
This photo shows how each of the intake and exhaust ports are CNC-machined to optimize flow efficiency. In addition, all Edelbrock Performer heads feature threaded inserts for rocker studs and exhaust bolt holes for superior strength and durability. Also included are manganese-bronze valve guides, which are most favorable for longevity.
These are the hydraulic lifters...
These are the hydraulic lifters that are matched to the emissions-compliant camshaft Edelbrock specifies for the MPI conversion. This camshaft comes with a CARB E.O. number and subsequently offers slight gains in performance over the OEM camshaft. Ultimately, we may switch to a hydraulic roller camshaft and lifters to see what power gains can be had. There is a fine line between max power and smog compliancy, and we want to find it.
Our Intake manifold, though...
Our Intake manifold, though a very nicely built piece, will require some finish prep before the assembly process can begin. Notice the extra material that was unintentionally included when the casting process occurred (see yellow arrow). We were surprised to see this imperfection sneak past Edelbrock's quality control team. Luckily we plan to have all these internal surfaces polished and re-ported to further increase flow numbers. More on that in the next build segment.
Edelbrock also offers an OE...
Edelbrock also offers an OE replacement fuel pump (PN 3581) designed to support the additional flow requirements of its MPI conversion kit. This pump flows 255 liter per hour (67 gph). We plan to install this later on when we tackle the engine swap.
Before starting any type of engine build, it is most important to set up a well lit area free of clutter and dirt. We recommend establishing a dedicated indoor work space of at least 8 by 8 feet. This simple step helps ensure all the small parts and pieces don't get misplaced or mixed up during the project. Below are some additional important tips to ensure your buildup succeeds.
Engine Stand Engines are...
Engine Stand
Engines are bulky, heavy, and dangerous if not secured properly. We recommend getting an engine stand that is load rated for V-8 engines. This 1,000-pound capacity stand, built by Norco Automotive Group, cost us $250 at a local auto parts store and features a 360-degree rotating head with locking set screws. We believe a good sturdy engine stand like this is critical for the assembly process.
The locking mechanism is integrated...
The locking mechanism is integrated into the rotating head of our Norco engine stand. Simple and effective, this arrangement allows complete rotational access without concern for unexpected movement.
Flooring We laid down an...
Flooring
We laid down an area of anti-fatigue foam flooring found in the Summit Racing catalog. This foot- and knee-friendly alternative to rock-hard concrete is a great preventative measure for accidental damage caused by dropped parts or tools on the garage floor during a project. We like this non-slip foam flooring because it absorbs impacts, and is super-easy to clean up-not to mention that it comes in 2x2-foot square tiles with interlocking edges that allow for an infinite uniform coverage.