BluePrint Engines GM 396 Stroker: 496 HP Fully Dressed Crate Engine
Turn-Key Power and Modern Reliability for Your Classic GM Build
Introduction
At Hammer Engines, we’ve built and installed thousands of performance engines, and we know that a successful project hinges on the balance between brute power and real-world driveability. The BluePrint Engines GM 396 Stroker (BP3961CTF) exemplifies this philosophy. This isn’t just an assembly of parts; it’s a fully engineered, dyno-tested power system that delivers modern performance with a classic big-block footprint. We stock this model specifically for our customers who demand a complete, no-excuses solution.
This 496 horsepower, fully dressed long block is the ultimate turn-key solution for the serious builder working on a resto-mod, high-performance street machine, or classic muscle car. The target user is someone who appreciates power but has zero tolerance for the tuning headaches of a carburetor. With its factory-style EFI system and computer-controlled ignition, this engine fires up and runs smoothly, whether you’re cruising on a hot day or launching from a stoplight. For a seamless integration into your vehicle, our team offers professional Engine Installation & Tuning Services to handle everything from wiring harness integration to transmission matching.
BluePrint Engines’ meticulous process ensures that every component, from the forged rotating assembly to the hydraulic roller camshaft, is matched for optimal performance and longevity. We trust this product enough to support it with its full manufacturer’s warranty because we’ve seen its reliability firsthand in customer vehicles. To protect your investment, we recommend pairing it with our Performance Engine Maintenance Package.
Technical Specifications Table
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BluePrint Engines |
| Engine Type | Fully Dressed Long Block |
| Base Engine | GM Big Block Gen V/Mark IV |
| Displacement | 396 CID (Actual 408 CID Stroker) |
| Max Horsepower | 496 HP @ 5,400 RPM |
| Max Torque | 501 lb-ft @ 4,300 RPM |
| Compression Ratio | 9.75:1 |
| Block Material | Cast Iron, 4-Bolt Main |
| Rotating Assembly | Forged Stroker Crankshaft, H-Beam Rods, Forged Pistons |
| Cylinder Heads | Aluminum, 100cc Chambers, 2.19″/1.88″ Valves |
| Camshaft Type | Hydraulic Roller (0.581″/0.588″ Lift, 230/236 Duration) |
| Fuel System | Included Multi-Port Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) |
| Ignition System | Included Computer-Controlled Distributor & Coil |
| Warranty | 30-Month / 50,000 Mile |
Application & Use-Case Section
This engine’s combination of classic physical dimensions and modern power delivery makes it incredibly versatile for a range of high-impact applications.
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Classic Muscle Car Resto-Mod: The ideal powertrain for a Chevelle, Camaro, or Nova restomod. It delivers over 500 lb-ft of tire-shredding torque with the driveability of a modern car, making it perfect for both shows and spirited street driving.
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Hot Rod & Custom Build Power: A fantastic choice for a ’32 Ford, ’55 Chevy, or other hot rod where a big-block look is desired but reliable, fuel-injected performance is required. The compact EFI unit fits under most stock hoods.
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Heavy Vehicle & Truck Swap: Provides massive torque gains for repowering a classic C10, K5 Blazer, or other GM truck, transforming its tow capacity and off-the-line performance. For guidance on selecting the right transmission, read our blog post: Choosing a Transmission for Your 500+ HP Crate Engine.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | BluePrint 396 Stroker | Competitor “Pro Series” 383 | Factory GM ZZ502 Crate Engine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Output | 496 HP / 501 LB-FT | 430 HP / 450 LB-FT | 502 HP / 567 LB-FT |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) | Carbureted | Carbureted (Holley) |
| Induction | Aluminum EFI Intake | Aluminum Dual-Plane | Aluminum Dual-Plane |
| Rotating Assembly | Forged Stroker | Cast | Forged |
| Warranty | 30-Month / 50,000 Mile | 12-Month / 12,000-Mile | 24-Month / 24,000-Mile |
| Included Ignition | Yes, Computer-Controlled | No (Distributor only) | No (Distributor only) |
Hammer Engines Verdict: The BluePrint 396 Stroker occupies a unique sweet spot. It significantly outperforms a typical 383 small-block in torque and horsepower, and it comes with the crucial modern advantage of EFI, which the factory ZZ502 lacks. While the ZZ502 makes more peak torque, it requires the owner to source and tune a carburetor. For the builder seeking a complete, out-of-the-box solution with a strong warranty and modern driveability, the BluePrint engine is the superior value.
Pros and Cons Table
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Turn-Key Operation: Fully dressed with EFI and ignition; just add fuel, power, and coolant lines. | Premium Price Point: The high-end components and EFI system command a higher price than carbureted alternatives. |
| Superior Driveability: Self-tuning EFI provides smooth idle, excellent throttle response, and cold-start reliability. | Weight: As a big-block platform, it is significantly heavier than a comparable small-block, potentially affecting front-end handling. |
| Strong Warranty Coverage: 30-month/50,000-mile warranty provides exceptional peace of mind for a performance engine. | Requires High-Octane Fuel: The 9.75:1 compression ratio necessitates 92+ octane premium fuel for optimal performance. |
| Dyno-Tested & Tuned: Each engine is broken-in and tested on a dyno, so you know exactly what power you’re getting. | Physical Size: The big-block dimensions may not fit in engine bays designed for small-block engines without modification. |
Authority-Building Content Hubs & Next Steps
Deepen Your Knowledge
Planning a high-horsepower build requires expert knowledge. Our technical library is built from real-world experience.
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EFI vs. Carburetor: Choosing the Right Induction for Your Crate Engine
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Understanding Compression Ratio and Fuel Octane for Performance Engines
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The Complete Guide to Breaking In a New Performance Crate Engine
Take the Next Step
Ready to unleash 496 horsepower of modern, reliable performance in your project? Our performance engine specialists are here to confirm fitment and discuss your build goals.
Contact our performance engine experts to discuss your build and get a final quote.
