Reply to "If you liked the 3 deuce intake manifold, you'll love this ..."

Ron,

I tend to agree with the other opinions in this thread on the Australian blocks, most are no better than U.S. blocks, but some are better. If you have the itch for an Aussie block, I suggest you try Aus Ford Parts. Phil deals in Australin performance parts for Clevelands and the last time I spoke to him he had "A few dozen" Aussie Cleveland blocks in stock. At the time I spoke with him none of the blocks were for sale since he was waiting to get everyblock sonic tested before sale since his reputation is on the line. Apparently the sonic shecks are complete since he had a block on EBAY last week, 2 bolt, std bore, high nickel content block for $500.

As for aluminum blocks you may be better off spending the money else where. One thing shade tree mechanics either do not know or fail to mention is that aftermarket aluminum block/head combinations "grow" as much as .030" from crankshaft centerline to deck surface. Once the engine is up to tempature this obviously effects the compression ratio to the extent that you have lost way more power than the wieght savings is worth. Professional engine builders compensate for this by using connecting rods (not practical for street use)of similar aluminum alloy since it has the same expansion rate. Factory production blocks are a different story since they use an aluminum alloy composition that has an expansion rate similar to steel, for example the expansion rate for the current GM alloy is 1.6%, in which a Cleveland deck would grow .014".

Would I build an Aluminum block? Sure I would! But do your home work first! I can promise you that 95% of the all aluminum street motors have been parts matched incorrectly by yo-yo's that just did not know better, but love to brag about the "bling bling" under the hood. I then just smile in the face of ignorance.