WHICH BLOCK TO USE

OK guys I need some input I.ve got the bottom end for a 4.5 stroke, 6.8 rod, diamond pistons10.25comp. on top.I,ve got several blocks to choose from c9ve or dive block .So which one would you choose.Building a street motor that is going to the track off and on.Thanks for your help. Dave

Either block is as capable as the other. You could have the blocks sonic tested and use the one that has the better cylinder wall thickness, but I doubt there will be a hill of beans worth of difference between them. Make sure you properly deck the block to achieve good quench and then prep it accordingly.

schmitty wrote:Either block is as capable as the other. You could have the blocks sonic tested and use the one that has the better cylinder wall thickness, but I doubt there will be a hill of beans worth of difference between them. Make sure you properly deck the block to achieve good quench and then prep it accordingly.

X2

Although not absolutely necessary, but with a stroke of 4.5 I would try and find a D9TE block. It has a cylinder wall that's .250 longer than other production blocks giving the piston more support at BDC, and would improve longevity. SVO blocks also have this feature.

D9 would be my first choice for the reasons stated above.

All 429/460 2 bolt blocks are of equal stength, with D9's having extended cylinder walls and DOVE-A having flat rails that make it easier to install 4 bolt caps.

X2 on the D9 block. I mocked up my 4.5" stroke engine with a D1 block first - slugs come WAAAY out the bottom of the cylinders. The later block just looked better with regards to piston skirt support. And if the crank is internal balanced and dont fit, minor adjustments with a die grinder will make enough room.