Yes, iron sleeves. I have no idea about the "quality" of the block. If its done right it will be a good piece (good alloy, good heat treat). Nice thing about aluminum, its weld-able.
I don't understand why they selected aluminum & not iron, they could sell many more iron blocks, because the price is less expensive, becuase iron is more durable. Iron is a very good block material. When it comes to durability verses weight, I would choose the improved durability over a savings in weight of 100 pounds.
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