Last month, we began our two-part series on how to get 400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque from a 331ci stroker small-block fitted with factory Ford iron cylinder heads, and we learned something remarkable ...

The 5.400-inch (center-to-center) rods are the most popular length for stroker kits intended for use in small-block Ford Windsor short-deck blocks. (For reference, stock 3-inch stroke 289s and Boss ...

the 331 versus 347ci stroker small-blocks.

What's the secret to hidden horsepower? Who cares? This engine-building effort is all about torque-street torque-and how to get a lot of it from your small-block Ford V-8 without spending a fortune.