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346LS1 block vs. 370 Iron block...

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Old May 14, 2004 | 05:54 PM
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Default 346LS1 block vs. 370 Iron block...

How much HP can each of these handle? I'm planning on putting about 20lb's of boost to them with all forged internals (except factory crank) and stage 3 ls6 heads and every bolt on. I need to decide asap, the iron block will cost me quite a bit more since it will be brand new, the ls1 block will be cheaper because I have a friend with a used one with 39k miles on it. What would you do? Thanks.


-Sly
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Old May 14, 2004 | 06:21 PM
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if you're getting an iron block , you're better off getting a used ( seasoned) one.
depending on how you'll boost the engine, i would go with the iron block for a turbo and an aluminum block if supercharging using an ati kit. the reasoning is that i't easier to cool the iron block with the stock fans, where as the aluminum block is easier to cool with aftermarket fans( ati kits get rid of the stock fans and replace it with a crappy single)
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Old May 14, 2004 | 08:25 PM
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hmm...

i thought the iron block was cheaper than the aluminum block?

no?
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Old May 14, 2004 | 09:21 PM
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i got mine for $500
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Old May 14, 2004 | 11:30 PM
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Brand new it's going to be 700. Where did you get yours 1dirtyZ?

-Sly
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Old May 15, 2004 | 10:24 AM
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ls1 block then put rods and pistons and it should be fine. i'd o ring the heads to ensure a good seal along with arp head studs.

plus its lighter.

beyond 20 lbs of boost i'd go with iron block cause they offer more strength.
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Old May 15, 2004 | 10:52 AM
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Originally Posted by 1dirtyZ
i got mine for $500
Same here...... I paid $550 for mine from AP Engineering....... I bought the whole short block though..... 370ci.
Kyle
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Old May 15, 2004 | 12:34 PM
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Originally Posted by 1dirtyZ
i got mine for $500
u got an aluminum block for $500?

ls6 cast or ls1 style?
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Old May 15, 2004 | 12:58 PM
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Either will be fine.

20 PSI on Stage 3 LS6 heads is a whole lot of hp.
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Old May 15, 2004 | 08:18 PM
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That's why I was planing on going the iron block route however it'll be a little while before I run that much boost, I still need to upgrade the fuel system and build the meth injection kit.
GotMeSome- I've allready set up to have the block oringed and have the arp head studs on their way as well.

Thanks for the input guys.

-Sly
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Old May 16, 2004 | 07:07 AM
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I would check with Mike (Black LS1 T/A) before you drop in that iron block. You will have to overcome the extra heat and extra weight. You might even have to start mixing in a little race gas, from I hear from Mike, that sucker gets plenty hot in the summer.
Thats why I just stuck with aluminum.
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Old May 16, 2004 | 07:59 AM
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No problems here with my Iron block...........dealing with heat..... Motor temps are the same as before, but summer just started and we havent been over 85 yet......
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Old May 16, 2004 | 11:30 AM
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I'm waiting to see what happens with the 6.0 aluminum LS2 block

If that doesn't work out, I'll probably go with a setup like Kyles.

Rob
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Old May 16, 2004 | 11:41 AM
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Originally Posted by BAD *** TA WS6
I'm waiting to see what happens with the 6.0 aluminum LS2 block

If that doesn't work out, I'll probably go with a setup like Kyles.

Rob

I take it you talked to the Boys at AP Engineering......... Great guys to deal with and great customer service.
Kyle
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Old May 16, 2004 | 02:27 PM
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i got my used (not new) iron block from valvegod ( do a search and you'll find him here).
and i agree with crunch, check with blackls1t/a to sdee what he had to do.
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Old May 16, 2004 | 02:33 PM
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I have a ? for you guys. I was told the 6.0L blocks need an extra hole tapped in them for the AC bracket...is this true and which hole is it?

-Sly
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Old May 16, 2004 | 03:22 PM
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Originally Posted by slyws6
I have a ? for you guys. I was told the 6.0L blocks need an extra hole tapped in them for the AC bracket...is this true and which hole is it?

-Sly
Yep and one tapped for the Altenator too...... that was needed....... that were my ATI bracket goes fro my blower..... it was easy...... find the thread pitch, and the drill bit to go with the tap. drill the hole, tap it and your good to go. I recommend that you use a drill with a level on it...
Kyle
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