Marine big block?
Thread Starter
Senior Member since 1492
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 87,913
Likes: 156
From: Just because I'm paranoid doesn't mean people aren't out to get me...
St. Jude Donor '09
Marine big block?
Buddy of mine is checking out a BB that's listed as being a "marine" block. Is there any difference compared to a regular BB?
Can he use it in his vette?
thanks
Len
Can he use it in his vette?
thanks
Len
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 30,845
Likes: 293
From: Boston, Dallas, Detroit, SoCal, back to Boston MA
I know one of the differences is the freeze plugs, brass instead of steel.
Chevy also put a different marine grind cam in them.
Sorry I can't be more helpful.
Contract Arizona Speed & Marine. http://www.azspeed-marine.com/
Chevy also put a different marine grind cam in them.
Sorry I can't be more helpful.
Contract Arizona Speed & Marine. http://www.azspeed-marine.com/
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 5,877
Likes: 1
From: Park Ridge IL
Besides the cam plugs, the cam and some of the clearances are different due to the operating rpm range and the temperatures most maringe engines operate at. It is not uncommon at all for marine engines to cruise at 4000+ rpm for extended periods of time while operating at 120-160F. Additionally, it is not uncommon on high-performance offshore boats to operate at 5000+ rpm for several minutes, even longer, plus during rough conditions the throttle is being worked up and down constantly as the props enter and exit the water. As a result, many of the clearances such as the piston to cylinder wall, piston ring, and piston pin are larger than in an automotive application due to the combination of increased combustion chamber heat from running WOT along with the colder engine block temps due to the endless supply of cool lake/ocean water (in a open cooling system where raw water is picked up, pumped through the engine system, and exited through the exhaust). While thermostats are used in open cooling situation, 160F is at high limit.
