The guys at CNC-Motorsports are well-versed in making horsepower, as evidenced by this sweet 540 cubic inch big-block Chevrolet on their dyno making monster power. Built from one of Dart‘s Big M engine blocks and a Callies Dragonslayer forged steel crankshaft, the pump twists the dyno needle to a whopping 1,551.6 horsepower at a relatively-low 6,800 rpm, with over 1,200 pound-feet of torque available from 5,100 rpm through 6,700 rpm — a real stump-puller, torque beast.

With a goal of 1,500 horsepower from the start, the robust internals and foundation were necessary. Also on the inside, a set of Callies Ultra I-beam connecting rods and JE pistons help to turn the boost pressure into horsepower. The high horsepower level necessitated an upgrade to H-13 tool steel piston pins for strength reasons. Total Seal‘s AP steel piston rings were selected for their proven ability to handle elevated boost levels.

Valvetrain consists of a set of Crower Severe Duty mechanical roller lifters riding on one of CNC-Motorsports’ own custom grind camshafts, actuating the valves in a set of Airflow Research 385cc CNC-ported aluminum cylinder heads. Induction duties are handled by a Brodix HB2000 intake manifold and custom-built C&S 4150-style carburetor, featuring dual needle and seats to permit the proper amount of fuel flow.

Out front, one of ProCharger‘s time-tested F-2 superchargers sits in a side-slinger configuration, delivering 17 pounds of boost pressure through the ProCharger induction hat in the blow-through application.

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“This engine met the personal goal of what the customer was after,” says CNC’s Clint Anderson. “There’s more in it; you could throw more boost at it. It’s got a real nice conservative tuneup.” A solid engine that makes serious grunt, and sounds awesome in the process.

For more information on what CNC-Motorsports can do for you, check out their website.