Shortest deck height on a factory block FE?

[plovett]

What's the shortest deck height anyone has run with no issues on a factory block FE?

I understand intake manifold fitment has to be dealt with.  I'm more curious about the structural integrity of the block, retaining head gaskets, etc.

I think 10.15" is not uncommon at all. 

So the question is, how low can you go?

thanks,

paulie

[blykins]

I have went 10.135" a couple of times. 

[XR7]

Hi Paulie, on my old beat up center oiler, it must be about 10.132 as the pistons (normal stroker deal) that I ordered for a zero deck at 10.150 are .018 out of the hole! I used a Cometic 5 layer head gasket at .060 thick and all is well, no issues at all. I have re-used those gasket twice now and will re-use them again when I put my high riser heads on soon. Those gaskets are expensive... but I had no other choice.

[57 lima bean]

"I have re-used those gasket twice now and will re-use them again when I put my high riser heads on soon"...anything special to know when cleaning these gaskets?

[gt350hr]

   10.130 is the shortest I have seen.

[plovett]

Thanks guys!

That gives me a ball park figure, and a sanity check.  My next combo will require custom pistons in any case, so I was just wondering how much I could reasonably move things around.

paulie

[edgarval]

Is 10.3 even shorter ?

[gt350hr]

    No 10.3 is taller and the same as the 429-460 , 351M-400.