Understanding the GM 602 Crate Engine
A crate engine is a pre-assembled engine that comes in a crate, ready for installation or upgrade in a vehicle. These engines are often referred to as turn-key, meaning they are fully built and can be installed with minimal effort. Major manufacturers like Dodge and General Motors offer a wide selection of crate engines, with the GM 602 being one notable example.
The GM 602 crate engine, also known as the CT350, is a 350-horsepower, 350-cubic-inch engine designed specifically for circle track racing. It is available through various retailers, including Devil Race Parts, where it is priced at $8,297 as of July 2025. This cost includes a factory-sealed race engine that consists of a GM-assembled long block, steel valve covers, a high-rise aluminum intake manifold, HEI distributor, 8-inch harmonic balancer, oil pump, pickup, and pan, along with the front timing cover and factory GM engine seals. Essentially, this package provides everything needed for installation—except for spark plugs, wires, and a flexplate. While not the cheapest V8 crate engine on the market, the 602 offers an affordable entry point for those looking to get into motorsport.
Key Specifications of the GM 602 Crate Engine
Circle track racing takes place on clay or dirt oval tracks, similar to speedway racing, which remains popular among enthusiasts. The GM 602 engine is tailored for success in these environments, delivering 350 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 396 lb-ft of torque at 3,800 rpm from its 350 cubic-inch displacement. It features a compression ratio of 9.1:1, weighs 434 pounds when delivered, and performs best on 92 octane fuel.
Although the engine is sold as-is, buyers have access to a variety of ancillary components to enhance its performance. Experts recommend using stepped headers, high-performance spark plugs and wires, and a 14-inch diameter air cleaner. An air cleaner with a 4-inch tall element is ideal, but a 3-inch version may be used if space constraints prevent the larger unit. The choice of carburetor will depend on the type of racing, so it’s essential to conduct independent research when setting up and installing the GM 602 crate engine.
Where to Use the GM 602 Crate Engine
Before investing over $8,000 in a crate engine, it’s natural to consider how and where it can be used. Technically, the GM 602 can be installed in a street-legal car, though certain components, such as the race-specific 8-quart oil pan, would need to be replaced with more road-friendly alternatives for proper fitment.
In terms of racing, the GM 602 is well-suited for several classes, including the IMCA Sport Mod and Hobby Stock categories, as well as regional series like the Fastrak Racing Series, Indiana Late Model Series, and Crate Racin’ USA. For those seeking even more power, GM offers a similar crate engine called the GM 604 (or CT400). Like the 602, the 604 is a GM-assembled crate engine, but it features a different cylinder head design and altered valvetrain, allowing it to produce 404 horsepower at a higher 5,600 rpm.
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