Will a big block fit?

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Oct 29, 2001 | 08:52 PM

Obdoc

Thread Starter

Racer

Joined: Sep 2001

Posts: 267

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From: Midland TX

Will a big block fit?

I am looking into swapping out my 350 cid in my 1972 Vette. I know the 454 cid dimensions fit in the engine bay and the motor mounts but does the 502 crate engine or the 509 Merlin crate engine have the same dimensions or do I have to do some fabricating to fit on the stock motor mounts? By the way, any suggestions on which engine to put in my Vette?

Oct 29, 2001 | 10:25 PM

grumpyvette

Pro

Joined: Oct 2001

Posts: 682

Likes: 23

From: loxahatchee fla

Re: Will a big block fit? (Obdoc)

either engine will bolt right in with no trouble at all, get either engine, as they both will produce over 500 hp if tuned correctly with just a few minor changes like a cam and headers, almost every part that fits a 454 will bolt right on a 502.

Oct 30, 2001 | 01:30 PM

d1_bradley

Instructor

Joined: Mar 2000

Posts: 207

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From: Yuma, Arizona USA

Re: Will a big block fit? (Obdoc)

The 502 doesn't have the mounting hole for the clutch ball or provision for mechanical fuel pump. I think the Merlin as both. You will need a SERIOUS radiator with either.

Nov 1, 2001 | 05:08 AM

MassVette

Le Mans Master

Joined: Oct 2000

Posts: 6,563

Likes: 2

Re: Will a big block fit? (Obdoc)

The ZZ/502 dropped right onto the stock frame mounts in my 1979. You do need an electric fuel pump with the Gen. V or VI big blocks (no mechanical fuel pump boss). Plus the clutch pivot is further back. I just made up a small bracket bolted to the block for the clutch Z-bar. Also, the engine has a one piece rear main oil seal, different flywheel, and the timing cover and oil pan don't interchange with the MK IV blocks. However, the 6 qt. pan supplied with the motor fit fine.
The motor has a hydraulic roller cam, too, which is a BIG plus for BBC's.
The GM HP crate 454 (425 HP), IMHO, is your best bang for the buck, though. It has a mechanical fuel pump boss, and I think has the correct clutch pivot bosses, too. It's a complete bolt-in, and has a GM warranty- costs around 4K. Check it out in GM Performance Parts on-line.
:yesnod: :chevy :yesnod:

Nov 1, 2001 | 06:50 AM

HWoods

Drifting

Joined: Aug 2000

Posts: 1,316

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From: Houston, TX

Re: Will a big block fit? (MassVette)

Big blocks are cool, so if that is what you want go for it. But if you are going to install a 500 HP big block, why not just hop up a small block. You can pull 500 HP and the engine weighs 100 lbs less than a big block?

Nov 2, 2001 | 09:58 AM

Obdoc

Thread Starter

Racer

Joined: Sep 2001

Posts: 267

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From: Midland TX

Re: Will a big block fit? (HWoods)

Thanks for the info. I have already played with the small block long enough, I think I now want to see what I can do with a big block. Besides, big blocks a cool!!! :cheers:

Nov 2, 2001 | 01:13 PM

RatRacer

Safety Car

Joined: Aug 1999

Posts: 4,862

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From: Texas

Re: Will a big block fit? (HWoods)

Quote:

Torque is where it's at on the street and the big block is a torque monster.

Nov 2, 2001 | 05:42 PM

je68

Instructor

Joined: Nov 2000

Posts: 220

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From: Overlandpark Kansas

Re: Will a big block fit? (Obdoc)

Go BB I have spent alot of time at the strip this year and the small blocks just can't keep up. Check out my 1/4 mi times w 3.33 gears and street tires. I am sure you can get a sb to run this fast but it will not be very streetable. I am sure there will be some who won't agree. I am sure they haven't ever had a bigblock if they had they would not tell you to buld your sb instead. In going fast biger is better!