Y2K WS6

iTrader: (33)

I have done a search and didn't find my answer.

If building a 6 liter build up why an iron block instead of the aluminum 6.0

How much hp can the aluminum block hold.

or is it just expense in most cases ( which seems odd on guys building 15,000 engines that a $350 would make a difference)

Thanks !

NightMoves

Pluses = Stronger, can be bored, easier to find
Minuses = Adds about 50 Lbs.

theblur98ss

iTrader: (71)

I did iron because it was stronger. I think they're about 100lbs heavier though. Guys are still making huge power on aluminum blocks as well though.

ls1290

iTrader: (20)

I went the LQ4 iron block for strength. Once you start to make some big power, there will start to be cylinder wall flex. I am anticipating I will just to getting into the range of big power, so I wanted to eliminate that possibility. I believe the weight difference is about 85 pounds. By the way, the entire A/C system on a C5 is about 75 pounds

BigRich954RR

iTrader: (1)

Alum block I'd say about 1300hp is the limit. I've seen more.

When pushing engine to the max the iron will move around less. So its what you are willing to work with.

cablebandit

iTrader: (37)

i went iron for price. I would rather have had aluminum

BLNLS1/RX7

iTrader: (2)

408 Iron Block so can run more boost.

SilverSS

iTrader: (30)

I cracked my LS1 block banging the rev limiter one too many times with the meth still spraying. I'm going with an iron 6.0 block now for the peace of mind. I could care less about the extra weight.

OUTLAWZ RACING

iTrader: (9)

All Iron here just a stronger block IMHO but weight can be off set by a tublar k. Hell in GM high tech Six speed inc car runs a lq9 in their racer car its over 900+ hp. and they spin that thing to the mooon lol. Its amazing how a 700 dollar block can hould 1k hp.

pwrtrip75

iTrader: (8)

Different metals expand differently with heat. I know aluminum will expand or grow more than iron. I do not know how this effects anything though with this exact block.

99blancoSS

iTrader: (115)

ding ding ding Think bearings

MY99TAWS6

iTrader: (3)

Also seen some higher hp builds in the old boosted lists running the iron block. LSX is of course also iron block for huge power. The 6.0 iron is cheaper also. It did add weight but like said you can offset some of that with things like lighter kmember and few other things.

I would think if every do another engine might go to the LSX if going to try to make really stupid power. I thought have seen the regular 6.0 take 1300 or so engine hp or maybe a bit more. Not sure if they were stock blocks or filled or whatever though.

9secSS

iTrader: (10)

An iron motor will make more power than the same exact setup on an aluminum block because of the bore distortion in the aluminum block which is something to keep in mind.

WAHUSKER

iTrader: (4)

Because you need the extra weight over the nose to hold the front end down. (see pics of Bobs Camaro on the EPP website)

Pros - All the things listed above plus no cyl sleeves to slip.

Cons - no place for the 3rd hole to mount the S/C bracket to the block (& you have to drill & tap the 2nd hole)

Phil99vette

iTrader: (11)

How much power you trying to make? Iron + fill is your max effort for strength.

Zombie

iTrader: (2)

I went iron block because it was a lot cheaper at the time. My engine has been together since mid 2006 and has 200+ track passes and 8,000 miles on it.

NemeSS

iTrader: (127)

iron easier to find, bore, and cheaper, less case distortion.

Y2K WS6

iTrader: (33)

Thanks for all of the great replies guys! the metallurgy does make a lot of sence; less distortion easier to work on etc.

i'm planning either a 346 aluminum block or 370 iron block with an APS TT kit.




I'm looking to go no more than 800 HP to the rears. Probabally for now about 6 since I don't drag race a lot.

Phil99vette

iTrader: (11)

One thing I was thinking about is on my setup, hypothecially IF I could use an Aluminum block to support 2k horsepower, not really sure if I would go that route because of weight, I have to add weight as it is.