[dav770431]

I am looking for a big block for my next build and i was wondering what year or part number is the best block to start out with? Im assuming 4 bolt mains are stronger but i know in some cases like the 400 blocks the 2 bolt is stronger. Im not worried too much about heads because i plan on getting alum heads and roller cam.

[DoubleVision]

No worries. The big block 4 bolt blocks are plenty stout and don't have the same problems as the 400 small block 4 bolt main blocks did.
Unless you plan on making over 500 horsepower then a 2 bolt block will suffice.

[dav770431]

Well I plan on making anywhere between 550-650 hp. So I want to for sure then go with a 4 bolt. Any years better than others? What about crank rods and pistons?

[CNC BLOCKS NE]

If you plan on going to a big bore it should be sonic tested first.

[35WINDOW]

You will get lots of opinions on this one, but I am a Gen VI fan myself-why? Factory 4 Bolt Mains, one piece rear main seal, oil galley moved away from the Oil Pan Rail (good for those 4.375" Cranks!), Factory Roller Cam.

Downsides-there aren't as many choices for aftermarket parts for them (but they are plentiful), cranks are different from Gen IV (but Gen V and VI are the same)-

[CNC BLOCKS NE]

Originally Posted by dav770431

I am looking for a big block for my next build and i was wondering what year or part number is the best block to start out with? Im assuming 4 bolt mains are stronger but i know in some cases like the 400 blocks the 2 bolt is stronger. Im not worried too much about heads because i plan on getting alum heads and roller cam.

If your looking for the best 454 block then I would say it would be a Dart block.

[dav770431]

I can't afford a dart block to be honest as much as I would love to get one. I really would like to get the block that obviously is the strongest and has the most parts available. I also plan on boring it to a 468.

[CNC BLOCKS NE]

Originally Posted by dav770431

I can't afford a dart block to be honest as much as I would love to get one. I really would like to get the block that obviously is the strongest and has the most parts available. I also plan on boring it to a 468.

Just sonic test before its even cleaned!!! And good luck!

[67-4-fun]

as mention, sonic test would be a good idea, but for the most part 60 tho over is will work fine with really no issues not enless the block has had some hard times.. you can goes as much as 125 tho max, but i would not recomend going that far for a street motor, 100 tho maybe just all depends on the sonic test to know if the cylinder walls are thick enough.. you you want to build a 468, thats cool real respectable build.... few more dollars and you can build a 496 with the same 60 over block, just get a cast or cast/steel 4.25 stroke crank, 6.385 rod and some small dome pistons {probe} like these here http://www.ebay.com/itm/Chevy-454-BB...sories&vxp=mtr and you will be set

[dav770431]

So with those and a hydraulic roller cam and a good set of heads how much power do you think I'll make?

[67-4-fun]

if you were to build the 496, some minor clearencing will need to be done to the block to clear the counter weights of the crankshaft and rod ends.. 500-600 hp is very possible with a good set of heads and a good cam with well over 550 ft/lbs of torque.. What heads and roller cam you thinking about getting? and intended use? street/strip or racing only or just street?

[dav770431]

Yeah that's why I was gonna stick with a 468 because of all the extra machine work for clearances but I'm not positive yet. What roller cam and heads would you suggest? It's gonna be a strip car with maybe a Sunday drive here and there.

[dav770431]

The more reading and builds I research the more I'd like to get around 600+hp.

[ap72]

for 600 HP your going to need a serious set of heads and rotating assembly, id consider the 496 route, it will help keep your rpm down which will be easier on the valvetrain.

[cobalt327]

Originally Posted by dav770431

The more reading and builds I research the more I'd like to get around 600+hp.

Making hp is the easy part. No brainer for the most part, you can get a LOT of power using nothing more than carefully selected off-the-shelf parts. But while you're thinking about this, you might also give some thought as to how you plan to reliably hook that 600+ hp up to the track w/o spitting the trans/driveshaft/rear axle/rearend out of the car. Traction, a good 60' time, and reliability is what separates a good drag car from a "so what" deal that will either get spanked by a SB car w/a lot less hp, or constantly break- or BOTH.

That said, most guys have never driven a vehicle w/400 hp let alone 600+. It's a whole 'nother game at 600 hp. I'm a little concerned that if clearancing a block for a crank is giving you pause (and this being your first engine build, I'm guessing), you might be in a little over your head. I'm not looking to rain on your parade here, just food for thought.