Description
BluePrint Engines BP350CTCD 350 Cruiser Engine – Deluxe Dressed
Product Overview
Experience the perfect blend of classic small-block power and modern reliability with the BluePrint Engines BP350CTCD 350 Cruiser crate engine. This deluxe dressed package is the ultimate turn-key solution for enthusiasts looking to revitalize a classic Chevy truck, muscle car, or street rod without the hassle of piecing together a custom build. Delivering a stout 385 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, this engine provides a significant power boost over stock 350s while maintaining excellent street manners.
Fully assembled and dyno-tested, this “deluxe dressed” configuration includes virtually every component needed to fire the engine right out of the crate. From the polished aluminum intake and carburetor to the HEI distributor and long-style water pump, BluePrint has meticulously selected and installed all the key parts. The engine features a durable 4-bolt main block, hydraulic roller camshaft for smooth operation, and aluminum cylinder heads for efficient cooling and power. Simply add an ignition wire set, plug in your throttle linkage, and you’re ready to run.
Whether you’re performing a straightforward engine swap or building a new project from the ground up, the BP350CTCD delivers proven performance, exceptional value, and the peace of mind that comes with a brand-new, fully-warranted engine.
Engine Swap & Build Resources
Technical Specifications
| Specification Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Part Number | BP350CTCD |
| Engine Type | Chevrolet Small Block V8 |
| Displacement | 350 cu. in. / 5.7L |
| Max Horsepower (HP) | 385 HP |
| Max Torque (lb-ft) | 400 lb-ft |
| Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Engine Block | New Cast Iron (4-Bolt Main) |
| Crankshaft | 4340 Forged Steel |
| Connecting Rods | 4340 Forged I-Beam |
| Pistons | Forged Aluminum |
| Cylinder Heads | Aluminum (64cc Chambers) |
| Valvetrain | Hydraulic Roller |
| Camshaft Type | Hydraulic Roller |
| Fuel System | Carbureted (Square-Flange) |
| Recommended Fuel | 92 Octane Premium |
What’s Included (Deluxe Dressed)
| Included | Not Included / Required Separately |
|---|---|
| ✓ Fully Assembled Long Block | ✗ Spark Plug Wires |
| ✓ Aluminum Intake Manifold | �ri Starter Motor |
| ✓ 650 CFM Carburetor | ✗ Alternator & Brackets |
| ✓ HEI Distributor | ✗ Harmonic Balancer |
| ✓ Aluminum Water Pump (Long Style) | ✗ Flexplate / Flywheel |
| ✓ Cast Aluminum Valve Covers | ✗ Engine Mounts |
| ✓ Polished Air Cleaner | ✗ Fuel Line & Fittings |
| ✓ Spark Plugs | ✗ Exhaust Manifolds/Headers |
| ✓ Thermostat & Housing | |
| ✓ Dipstick & Tube |
Recommended for a Complete Installation
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Starter: High-Torque Mini Starter for SBC
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Exhaust: Street Series Block-Hugger Headers
Comparison Table: BP350CTCD vs. Stock 350
| Feature | BluePrint 350 Cruiser | Stock GM 350 (L31 Vortec) | Stock GM 350 (1970s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Output | 385 HP / 400 lb-ft | 255 HP / 335 lb-ft | ~170-250 HP |
| Cylinder Heads | Performance Aluminum | Cast Iron Vortec | Cast Iron |
| Camshaft | Hydraulic Roller (Modern) | Hydraulic Roller | Hydraulic Flat Tappet |
| Induction | 650 CFM Carb & Aluminum Intake | EFI Intake | 4-Bbl Carburetor |
| Construction | Premium Forged Internals | Cast Pistons & Nodular Crank | Cast Internals |
| Warranty | 30-Month/50,000-Mile | Varies | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is this engine a direct replacement for my stock Chevy 350?
A: Yes, in most cases. The BP350CTCD uses standard Chevrolet small-block mounting points, bellhousing patterns, and dimensions. You will reuse your existing engine mounts, transmission, and accessories. Always verify specific fitment for your vehicle.
Q2: What fuel octane is required?
A: With a 9.5:1 compression ratio, this engine is designed to run reliably on premium 92 octane fuel for optimal performance and to prevent detonation (engine knocking).
Q3: Why choose a hydraulic roller camshaft?
A: Hydraulic roller cams offer several key advantages:
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No Break-In Period: Unlike flat tappet cams, they don’t require a risky break-in procedure with special oil.
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More Power: Typically provide more area under the curve for better low-end torque and high-RPM power.
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Durability: Reduced friction leads to longer engine life.
Q4: Can I use my existing exhaust manifolds?
A: This depends on your cylinder heads. The aluminum heads on this engine may have raised exhaust ports, which could prevent stock exhaust manifolds from bolting up. It’s recommended to use headers or manifolds designed for aftermarket aluminum heads.
Q5: What is the break-in procedure for this engine?
A: BluePrint Engines provides specific break-in instructions, but it generally involves:
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Running the engine at varying RPMs (1500-2500) for 20-30 minutes.
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Changing the oil and filter immediately after initial break-in.
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Avoiding extended idle periods and constant RPM during the first 500 miles.
Internal Link: For a detailed step-by-step process, see our Crate Engine Break-In Guide.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Turn-Key Ready: Deluxe dressed configuration includes nearly all components. | Premium Fuel Required: 92 octane fuel is mandatory for optimal performance. |
| Modern Hydraulic Roller Cam: No break-in hassle, improved performance & reliability. | Raised Exhaust Ports: May require specific headers, limiting stock manifold use. |
| Premium Components: Forged rotating assembly and aluminum heads for durability. | Carbureted Setup: Requires tuning knowledge vs. self-tuning EFI systems. |
| Strong Warranty: Backed by a 30-month/50,000-mile limited warranty. | Higher Initial Cost: More expensive than a stock rebuild or used engine. |
| Proven Power: Dyno-tested 385 HP provides a significant performance upgrade. |
Conclusion & Ideal Use Case
The BluePrint Engines BP350CTCD 350 Cruiser is the ideal powertrain foundation for anyone seeking a powerful, reliable, and complete drop-in engine solution for a classic vehicle.
This engine is perfectly suited for:
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1967-1987 Chevy C10, C20, & K5 Blazer Trucks
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1967-1981 Camaros & Firebirds
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1968-1977 Novas, Chevelles, & El Caminos
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1955-1957 Chevy Hot Rods & Street Rods
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Any project requiring a robust, carbureted small block Chevy.
If you want the visceral thrill of a carbureted V8 with the reliability of modern engineering and the convenience of a fully dressed package, the BluePrint Engines 350 Cruiser is an outstanding value that delivers on its promises.
🔗 Official Technical Resource
For detailed installation guides, break-in procedures, and full warranty terms, always refer to the BluePrint Engines Support Page for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
