Whats a safe RPM without blowin' my engine?

Hi again everyone. I've got an '84 Caprice Classic, 305 4bbl... nothing too special besides exhaust and ignition system. Anyways, I was wondering, whats the highest RPM I can safely let my engine rev up to. I usually don't let it go higher than 4000 RPM, but thats only because thats what I thought 305's redlined at (I also dont want to strain the engine too much, its just kind of a once in a while thing). But recently a buddy of mine has gotten an '83 camaro with a 305 4bbl carb too just no emmissions, and his gets his up to 6500 RPM. Is that okay for the engine, or is he pushin his luck? I'd appreciate anyone's opinion, or information. Thanks!

~Pete

I would think that he's pushing his luck.
Most small block V-8's (especially from that period) can handle 5500 rpm, but not much more. Unless you have done some modification to your valvetrain you run a risk of floating or burning a valve, among other things. You won't make much more power after 5000 rpm or so anyways, so I don't know why you would want to flog on it if there are no real power gains.

It would be an even greater risk to do that with an older engine... stretched timing chains, worn bearings, rings etc. can't stand up to too much abuse. I jump all over mine every now and then, but I try not to push it much past 55-5600 when I do... I just don't feel the need for a rebuild anytime soon.

Again, this is just my opinion, and we all know that opinions are like a**holes.... everybody's got one ;)

I agree with that, it's not worth it to chance it with an older engine like that plus you have to remember it's no hot-rod. I got a 88 caprice with a 305 and 4bbl setup and i try to stay under 5000. I just don't see the point, especially when it doesn't have much high end anyways.