How much does a 454 crank weigh?
A 454 crank typically weighs about 60 to 70 pounds, depending on material and design.
Crank weight varies with whether you’re using a factory cast-iron crank or an aftermarket forged unit, as well as with stroke length, counterweight size, and overall webbing. This article outlines typical weights, what influences them, and how to choose a crank for a Chevrolet 454 big-block build.
What affects crank weight
Several design choices drive weight differences in 454 cranks. The main factors are material, stroke and counterweight configuration, and the overall webbing and fillet design.
- Material: cast iron (OEM) versus forged steel (aftermarket)
- Stroke length and counterweight mass are tied to crank balance and can add or remove weight
- Webbing thickness and fillet design affect overall mass and strength
- Balance considerations and aftermarket engineering may optimize weight for performance applications
In practice, most 454 cranks fall in a broad range around 60–70 pounds, with exact figures dictated by the specific part and build goals.
Typical weights by material
Here are the common weight ranges you can expect for Chevrolet 454 crankshafts, based on material and typical designs.
- Cast iron OEM 454 crank: approximately 65–70 pounds (29.5–31.8 kg)
- Forged steel aftermarket 454 crank: approximately 60–65 pounds (27–29.5 kg)
- Heavy-duty forged or billet counterweighted variants: up to about 70–75 pounds (32–34 kg) in some designs
Regardless of the category, the majority of street and performance builds sit in the 60–70 pound range. Always confirm the exact weight from the manufacturer for precise balancing and compatibility with your rotating assembly.
Notes for selection
When selecting a crank, consider how its weight interacts with the rest of the rotating assembly, engine balance, and intended use (street, strip, or marine). Heavier cranks may require adjustments to rods, pistons, and dynamic balancing to maintain reliability.
Summary
For a Chevrolet 454 big-block, expect a crankweight in the 60–70 pound range, with cast-iron OEM versions tending toward the higher end and forged aftermarket options toward the lower end. Exact weight varies by stroke, counterweights, and design; always consult manufacturer specifications when planning a build to ensure proper balance and performance.
How much does a fully assembled Big Block Chevy weigh?
| Chevrolet big-block engine | |
|---|---|
| Power output | 250–1,004 hp (186–749 kW) |
| Torque output | 385–876 lb⋅ft (522–1,188 N⋅m) |
| Dimensions | |
| Dry weight | 517–761 lb (235–345 kg) |
How much does a Chevy 454 crankshaft weigh?
Additional information
| Weight | 79 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 10 × 10 × 28 in |
| Style | Forged |
| Series | Standard Weight |
| Make | Chevy |
How much does a Chevy 454 engine weigh?
A stock Chevy 454 engine typically weighs around 680 to 700 pounds, depending on whether it has an iron or aluminum block and heads. A fully dressed, cast-iron version can weigh over 800 pounds, while an aluminum-headed version can be about 100 pounds lighter.
Factors affecting the weight
- Material: Cast iron is heavier than aluminum. Engines with aluminum heads and intake manifolds will be lighter than all-iron versions.
- Dress level: The weight can increase significantly when accessories like exhaust manifolds, a water pump, and a carburetor are included.
- Specific model: Some specific models have different weights. For example, a 1990 Mark IV 454 weighed 517 pounds.
What is the average weight of a crankshaft?
Average crankshaft weight is 50-51 pounds. Eagle Lightweight crankshafts are rated to support up to 850 horsepower.
