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Billet main caps or Girdle????

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Old Dec 19, 2005 | 08:36 PM
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Default Billet main caps or Girdle????

Starting the planning process of a shortblock build.

The goal.... 800HP @ flywheel utilizing 12-15 PSI out of my procharger.

is one or the other required?? been hearing varrying opinions on the matter....I want as close to bullet proof lower end as possible.

about the same piece price, but machining for the billets adds approx another $350.00. Not really an issue if its superior in strength...

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experiences please chime in
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Old Dec 19, 2005 | 08:39 PM
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The main caps could be a nice investment for that HP level, but I think everyone has downed the girdle due to it's lack of tieing into adequate parts.
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Old Dec 19, 2005 | 08:54 PM
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Originally Posted by b727pic
Starting the planning process of a shortblock build.

The goal.... 800HP @ flywheel utilizing 12-15 PSI out of my procharger.

is one or the other required?? been hearing varrying opinions on the matter....I want as close to bullet proof lower end as possible.

about the same piece price, but machining for the billets adds approx another $350.00. Not really an issue if its superior in strength...

Opinions
experiences please chime in
You can order the main caps directly from me when you're ready.
586-791-4120 x234


_JASON
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Old Dec 19, 2005 | 09:47 PM
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ARP main studs on the factory caps would be fine at that powerlevel. If you think you will step up later, the main caps would be a nice upgrade. We don't install the girdle until the flywheel numbers expected reach 1400+

Kurt
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Old Dec 19, 2005 | 10:04 PM
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Originally Posted by Beast96Z
The main caps could be a nice investment for that HP level, but I think everyone has downed the girdle due to it's lack of tieing into adequate parts.
Although not pinned...the girdle appears to be tieing all the mains together. I am thinking of it as in aircraft monocoque construction....by themselves not too strong start tieing a bunch of stringers and bulkheads together and the whole assembly becomes fairly rigid....
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Old Dec 19, 2005 | 10:07 PM
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Originally Posted by 427
ARP main studs on the factory caps would be fine at that powerlevel. If you think you will step up later, the main caps would be a nice upgrade. We don't install the girdle until the flywheel numbers expected reach 1400+

Kurt
Thanks Kurt.....

I guess the issue is...who knows what tomorrow will bring. its all easier done now, and cheaper in the long run!!
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Old Dec 20, 2005 | 07:54 PM
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Are either of them a neccessity? I don't think so.

The billet main caps are good insurance in my opinion however.

If your budget allows for the caps there is no harm in using them.If your budget does not then I wouldn't lose any sleep over it at that power level.

I have made 800fwhp with stock caps and no girdle on a H/C,N20 motor.Rod broke,mains were in good shape.
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