4-bolt main versus 2-bolt main blocks
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 7,098
Likes: 378
From: Las Vegas - Just stop perpetuating myths please.
As far as 2 bolt block strength if you don't expect installing tight fitting main studs will be strong enough then as mentioned you can have a 2 bolt block converted to a 4 bolt block with "splayed" main caps which is considered stronger than stock "straight" 4 bolt main caps/block. But the conversion is not cheap.
I have seen Gen I engine blocks offered for nearly pocket change on Craigslist and often sbc blocks are given away for free by friends or word of mouth. Myself ihave 4 standard bore blocks now and would only pick up another 400 block for a token price. I recommend just use some patience and keep looking for the block you want - Craigslist, forum parts for sale, local salvage yard, local mechanics.
Good luck.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 788
Likes: 160
From: Rio Rico, AZ
I talked with Jim again today. I've decided to go with a 2-bolt block with ARP studs. I can "sleep" at night with that. My AFR heads showed up and Jim sent me pictures. Very nice...
Thanks for all your input.
Went
Thanks for all your input.
Went
Heel & Toe
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 22
Likes: 3
Seasoned vs new is debatable. Ill take new any day...to me seasoned says "old and used up" none of us are endurance racing.
Whatever fits the budget I suppose...got tired of sinking $ into older blocks only to find some hack machined it improperly or skipped over lifterbores and that new engine makes noise.
Whatever fits the budget I suppose...got tired of sinking $ into older blocks only to find some hack machined it improperly or skipped over lifterbores and that new engine makes noise.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 2,692
Likes: 349
From: Sacramento California
Try looking around for a real rough beater C4 with an L98, you'd be surprised at what you might get for $600-800 including a good rebuildable block. Plus you can part the rest out and make some money back (hopefully)
