Maximum Horsepower for Base Block

[410bruce]

Hey guys. At what point are the base, non-reinforced main cylinder blocks considered not advisable to use? Street or race use.

Thanks.

[blykins]

When they split in half.....LOL

There's really not a number that you can put on a block as to when it will fail.  It depends on the rpm, horsepower, etc., etc.  Some of them may live at 700 hp, some may split at 600. 

[410bruce]

Cool. Thanks Brent.

[thatdarncat]

I have a couple 428 blocks that are cracked up the mains. One was raced, but I know it wasn’t making anywhere near 600hp, the other I don’t know the history of, but no evidence it was a high horsepower engine either. Both have the three finger main webs.

[410bruce]

I have a couple 428 blocks that are cracked up the mains. One was raced, but I know it wasn’t making anywhere near 600hp, the other I don’t know the history of, but no evidence it was a high horsepower engine either. Both have the three finger main webs.

Wow! I wonder what would cause that? Is that repairable?

[Falcon67]

>When they split in half.....LOL

Truth for all stock blocks IMHO.  I've seen 302 blocks go 2~3 seasons with 500+ HP N/A and a 150 shot every pass and seen same blocks go 4 passes at under 500 HP and then fall apart.  Same like rear ends LOL - a guy I know that raced a Cougar - 351W, low 11's - ran wheels up every pass on an 8" rear pig with 28 spline axles.  3rd year he finally spit the pinion out.  Most of the Ford people I know that race are using aftermarket blocks.  You just never know.  The spare 302 makes around 300 ish, I put that one together in 1995.   I had a 351C that went 2 seasons and split 5 cylinder walls plus exhibited major cap walk, the 351C in the Falcon has been raced since 2006, has 3000+ rounds on it.   Like a Timex watch LOL.  [ Immediately runs around knocking on every piece of wood in the office]