Any interest in pics/info for using a main stud girdle on a LT1?
05-06-2009, 11:48 PM
#1
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Any interest in pics/info for using a main stud girdle on a LT1? Hey guys, turns out that I forgot to order 4-bolt mains on my 383 buildup for my Camaro, so I decided to go the "main stud girdle" route to add some support to the bottom end since I am planning on around 550hp/530tq...
It was somewhat a PITA, as I had to clearence the girdle, drill out for the rear main studs, drill for the dipstick tube, modify the oil pump, clearence for the crank throws and majorly modify the oil pan to get it all to fit correctly.
Oh, I also ende dup using a much larger washer for one of the rear main nuts, as the clearencing was pretty major...
I have a set of pics I can post if anyone is interested. For the power level I am at it actually made a lot more sense to go with the main girdle in lieu of a 4-bolt conversion (saved around $350+)... I actually feel pretty confident of throwing a 150shot at it as well (forged pistons)...
It is DEFINITELY not a 'first-time-motor-build' kind of addition, but having built over 2 dozen LT1s I am quite comfortable making the necessary modifications to make this work.
I can also post a complete engine buildup listing all parts/costs as well as an explination as to what/why if there is interest.
It was somewhat a PITA, as I had to clearence the girdle, drill out for the rear main studs, drill for the dipstick tube, modify the oil pump, clearence for the crank throws and majorly modify the oil pan to get it all to fit correctly.
Oh, I also ende dup using a much larger washer for one of the rear main nuts, as the clearencing was pretty major...
I have a set of pics I can post if anyone is interested. For the power level I am at it actually made a lot more sense to go with the main girdle in lieu of a 4-bolt conversion (saved around $350+)... I actually feel pretty confident of throwing a 150shot at it as well (forged pistons)...
It is DEFINITELY not a 'first-time-motor-build' kind of addition, but having built over 2 dozen LT1s I am quite comfortable making the necessary modifications to make this work.
I can also post a complete engine buildup listing all parts/costs as well as an explination as to what/why if there is interest.
05-07-2009, 02:24 AM
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The main stud girdle is a great supporter of the 2 bolt mains. The upside their around 100 bucks but you have to beat the crap out of your oil pan and do lots of clearancing!!! But way worth the effort!!!
05-07-2009, 02:31 AM
#4
How much did this cost you and how much was your 4 bolt conversion going to cost? I paid $180 for house brand caps and arp bolts, then $220 in machine work, $400 total. ~900 crank HP later later, bearings came out looking great still when we tore it down.
