stage 2 - Hot Rod Performer SBC
Building on the proven Hot Rod Cruiser package, the Hot Rod Performer delivers approximately 50 additional horsepower, a broader powerband, and a noticeably more aggressive personality. It's the perfect next step for enthusiasts looking to elevate performance while maintaining the reliability and drivability expected from a true street engine.
Operating Range
1900-5600
Multiple Cam Selections Available!Estimated power
375-390 HP
Fuel Requirement
91+ Octane Pump Gas
What To expect
The Hot Rod Performer SBC is the perfect balance between everyday drivability and true street performance. Building upon the proven Hot Rod Cruiser package, this combination delivers approximately 50 additional horsepower, stronger mid-range acceleration, and a noticeably more aggressive personality while maintaining the reliability and confidence expected from a Reid's Speed Shop engine.
Whether you're cruising through town, carving up your favorite backroad, or pulling into a local car show, the Hot Rod Performer delivers the sound, responsiveness, and performance enthusiasts expect from a premium Small Block Chevrolet.
Every engine is professionally machined, precision assembled, thoroughly inspected, and run stand tested prior to delivery, giving you confidence that your engine has been verified before installation.
Typical INvestment: Starting at $7,500 (labor included)
Click Below!
Every Package Includes Carburetor • Ignition • Engine Cradle • Lift Plate
quick specs
Approx. 375-390 Horsepower
Approx. 400-415 lb-ft Torque
355 Cubic Inch SBC
Hydraulic Roller Camshaft
180cc Aluminum Cylinder Heads
10:1 Compression Ratio
91+ Octane Recommended
Power Band: 1,900-5,600 RPM
Excellent Street Manners
Healthy Performance Idle
Strong Mid-Range Torque
Professionally Machined & Blueprint-Assembled
Run Stand Tested Prior to Delivery
Engine Personality
Idle
Healthy. Aggressive.
Throttle Response
Instant. Crisp.
Torque
Strong. Broad.
Acceleration
Responsive. Exciting.
Street Manners
Excellent. Civilized.
Cruising
Comfortable. Confident.
Sound
Classic. Commanding.
Character
Balanced. Addictive.
Looking for More Details?
The information above is intended as a quick overview of this engine package. For a complete parts list, camshaft specifications, recommended drivetrain combinations, compatibility questions, or customization options, contact Reid's Speed Shop. We'll gladly walk through the entire build and tailor it to your application.
add-ons
Turn-Key Upgrade Option
For those looking to simplify installation and complete the package, a Turn-Key upgrade option is available. This option adds the essential front accessories and supporting components needed to make installation easier and give the engine a more complete, finished appearance.
The Turn-Key package includes:
CVF Full Serpentine Conversion Kit
• High-flow long water pump with bracket
• Polished 100 amp one-wire alternator with bracket
• Polished power steering pump with bracket
• Polished pulley combo kit
Also Comes With:
Swivel Thermostat Housing
High Flow Thermostat
Mechanical Fuel Pump + Mounting Plate
Light Weight Bronze Tipped Fuel Pump Pushrod
Powermaster Mini Starter
Flexplate + Hardware
Add approximately $1,500
This option provides many of the key components typically needed when installing a fresh engine, helping reduce the time and effort required to source additional parts.
Precision Machine Work
Every engine built at Reid's Speed Shop is professionally inspected and machined before assembly. Regardless of the condition of the core, each engine undergoes the machine work necessary to ensure proper clearances, sealing surfaces, and long-term reliability.
Because most small block engines on the road today are 40–50 years old or older, decades of normal wear make professional machining an essential part of any quality rebuild—not an optional upgrade.
Typical machine shop services include:
• Hot tank cleaning
• Cleaning all oil passages
• Crack inspection
• Cylinder honing or boring as required
• Deck surface preparation
• Connecting rod reconditioning (when required)
• Cam bearing installation
• Freeze plug installation
• Final inspection and measurement
Professional machine shop costs typically range from $750–$1,500, depending on the condition of the engine and the services required. This investment is already factored into the Typical Investment shown for each engine package, so there are no surprises during the build process.
If additional repairs are discovered beyond what is considered a standard rebuild—such as major block damage or unusable components—you'll always be contacted first to discuss the available options before any additional work is performed.
Core
If you don’t have a block of your own and would still like one built in this manner, I can source a core for you for a fee!
I will also take $200 off for those that provide an 880 or 638 core.