Chev ZL1 crate engine?
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 12,142
Likes: 54
From: Taylor Michigan
Originally Posted by PRNDL
Thanks for starting this thead! 
I have been wondering quite a bit what it would cost to build an engine starting with the ZL1 block, for $4300.
Here is the description:
GM PART # 12370850
GM LIST: $6,142.86
OUR PRICE: $4,300.00
DESCRIPTION: ZL1 454 Aluminum Big Block
The Chevrolet ZL1 Aluminum Big Block is back and better than ever. This block was first introduced in the 1969 Corvette and Camaro. It was one of the rarest production engines ever built. Now the improved version is available. This block is based on the original tooling. The new casting is made from 356-T6M aluminum alloy and has a 4.118" cast iron liner that can be bored to 4.300". The bottom end has also been improved with new four-bolt splayed steel main caps, with dowel pins to locate and hold the caps in place. This block includes screw-in freeze plugs with o-ring seals, and a two-piece rear seal. The new block has a provision for both dry sump or regular oil pump systems and mechanical fuel pump. All GM performance cylinder heads will fit this block and it only weighs 110 lbs. The maximum stroke is 4.375".
I think the recent limited production ZL1 engine didn't sell too well because it was simply overpriced for what you got. As far as the 502 engine, I would prefer to have a mechanical fuel pump like the old style vettes, and not have to fab a bracket for the clutch.
I have been wondering quite a bit what it would cost to build an engine starting with the ZL1 block, for $4300.Here is the description:
GM PART # 12370850
GM LIST: $6,142.86
OUR PRICE: $4,300.00
DESCRIPTION: ZL1 454 Aluminum Big Block
The Chevrolet ZL1 Aluminum Big Block is back and better than ever. This block was first introduced in the 1969 Corvette and Camaro. It was one of the rarest production engines ever built. Now the improved version is available. This block is based on the original tooling. The new casting is made from 356-T6M aluminum alloy and has a 4.118" cast iron liner that can be bored to 4.300". The bottom end has also been improved with new four-bolt splayed steel main caps, with dowel pins to locate and hold the caps in place. This block includes screw-in freeze plugs with o-ring seals, and a two-piece rear seal. The new block has a provision for both dry sump or regular oil pump systems and mechanical fuel pump. All GM performance cylinder heads will fit this block and it only weighs 110 lbs. The maximum stroke is 4.375".
I think the recent limited production ZL1 engine didn't sell too well because it was simply overpriced for what you got. As far as the 502 engine, I would prefer to have a mechanical fuel pump like the old style vettes, and not have to fab a bracket for the clutch.
I`m in total agreement. All you need is "that" block. It can be built with any parts you want and all stock in any HP configuration from 400 to whatever, as the sky is nearly the only limit. Mild to awsome wild and drop right in hassle free. It can`t get any better than this.
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 26,545
Likes: 46
From: Huntersville NC
Originally Posted by holley505
I would go for the 13,500.00 LS7 motor... be lighter and kill the over priced big block... extra points for being COOL!!!
Well maybe kill the big block
Well maybe kill the big block
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 11,322
Likes: 1
From: Living in the Hartland
Originally Posted by PRNDL
You do have a point! I was shocked when I heard this engine would be available so soon in a crate, and would only cost $13.5k! I was sure it would be $20k. I'm sure it is going to be very popular with the restomotive crowd. 505 net hp in a smallblock?? yowza! But for me I want to build an old fangled ZL1 engine!
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 364
Likes: 0
From: Hawthorne California
You can look at it like that, but i (myself) would prefer to have a ZL1 clone car. The originals were the most powerful and unique powerplants to be outfitted in any car, PERIOD! That is why i would not choose the LS7 or to eat less twinkies!
