Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

[Joe L.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

Joe unless I am mistaken the diffrances are very minor and only a few select people would know the difreance. The biggest thing that would tip people off would be the size of the stamp pad.

Keith------

Well, I suppose it depends on what one considers minor. The external configuration of the cylinder heads is significantly different, especially on the ends which is the most visible part. The configuration of the front of the block is also significantly different. This also includes a composite timing cover which appears quite a bit different than the original steel cover.

[Rob V.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

Hi Again Mike--I do really just need the block. Basically, I have all of the "big" pieces; I have a new (never used) LS-7 crank; 7/16 rods that have been resized and have new ARP rod bolts; new (never used World Products/Merlin heads with Manley severe duty valves); Comp Cams roller tip rocker arms; new (never used) 454 balancer; new (never used) big block oil pan with windage tray; GM aluminum intake manifold (casting #3933163); new Holley 4160 carb. I did have a block, a '68 preproduction aluminum ZL-1 block, as well as GM aluminum heads, but the block and heads needed at least $5000.00 worth of work, so I returned those to my friend. Besides the block, I will need cam/lifters/springs; oil pump; water pump; pistons/rings; and bearings. So, I have a start on procuring what is needed; and you guys have been great in focusing me on what I need to do. Rob

[Mike T.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

Rob - Sounds like you've acquired quite a bit already, more than most of us figured. That preproduction aluminum ZL-1 block does sound exotic but apparently 'exotic' comes with a hefty price tag. I guess it's now it's a matter of finding a decent block, any leads where you're located? PM sent.

[Rob V.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

Hi Mike--I will check the PM. Yes, my best friend of 42 years purchased both the ZL1 block and an aluminum Yenko block in the mid 1980s in Southern California where he lives. At the time, he paid over $4000.00 for supposedly "good serviceable" blocks. Of course, both blocks had been used in racing applications; and both were bad. As a matter of fact, he happened to take the blocks to one of the many specialized speed/machine shops in his area; and the owner said, "...oh yes, I have worked on these blocks several times before...". He currently has a beautifully restored, original '69 Camaro SS with original numbers matching 396 engine, and plans to get the Yenko repaired, and put it in the Camaro. But I digress... Thanks for the support! Rob

[Joe R.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

Rob,

Randy with Engines Limited may have or can probably find you a block. It won't be cheap, but I'll bet that it will be guaranteed rebuildable. I have bought parts from him twice with no problems, other than taking awhile. Here's the link:

http://engineslimited.com/cms/

Joe

[Rob V.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

Thank you Joe! I had previously seen names of companies that sold engines mentioned on the TDB; however, it is apparent that my ability to conduct meaningful searches on the website is not very good. I will contact the individual/company, and see what they have in stock. Thank you again for taking the time to help me! Best Regards, Rob

[Joe L.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

Rob,

Randy with Engines Limited may have or can probably find you a block. It won't be cheap, but I'll bet that it will be guaranteed rebuildable. I have bought parts from him twice with no problems, other than taking awhile. Here's the link:

http://engineslimited.com/cms/

Joe

Joe------


If certain casting numbers and "dates" are forsaken, one could obtain a Mark IV big block and heads for a lot less than if one insists on date and casting number-correct components for the 65-72 period. Except for dates and casting numbers, the block will, in virtually all respects, appear the same as original.

[Rob V.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

For Those Who Are Mildly Curious:

I have received some initial quotes for nice, re-buildable, bare Chevrolet big blocks:

From a well known Corvette dealer/parts vendor: 1967 427 block--$4800.00
From a recommended engine supplier/builder: 1967 427 390/400/435HP block, Casting Number 3904351, $5000.00 to $6500.00
197? "4" bolt main 454 block, $3900.00 to $4200.00
197? "2" bolt main 454 block, $3000.00 to $3500.00
From my local Corvette dealer: Sell my big block parts and buy a crate engine; "...I am going down the wrong road.."

Question: Do you think the prices of the bare blocks cited above are fairly representative of what is currently available from commercial sources????

Thanks In Advance,
Rob

[Joe L.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

For Those Who Are Mildly Curious:

I have received some initial quotes for nice, re-buildable, bare Chevrolet big blocks:

From a well known Corvette dealer/parts vendor: 1967 427 block--$4800.00
From a recommended engine supplier/builder: 1967 427 390/400/435HP block, Casting Number 3904351, $5000.00 to $6500.00
197? "4" bolt main 454 block, $3900.00 to $4200.00
197? "2" bolt main 454 block, $3000.00 to $3500.00
From my local Corvette dealer: Sell my big block parts and buy a crate engine; "...I am going down the wrong road.."

Question: Do you think the prices of the bare blocks cited above are fairly representative of what is currently available from commercial sources????

Thanks In Advance,
Rob

Rob-------


I think you could purchase a Mark IV block for a lot less. Mark IV blocks were manufactured for PRODUCTION until 1991. Most of the 1976-91 examples were used in trucks. These are not very desirable for restoration guys. However, their configuration is virtually identical to earlier blocks used in Corvettes and other "muscle cars".

[Patrick B.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

For Those Who Are Mildly Curious:

I have received some initial quotes for nice, re-buildable, bare Chevrolet big blocks:

From a well known Corvette dealer/parts vendor: 1967 427 block--$4800.00
From a recommended engine supplier/builder: 1967 427 390/400/435HP block, Casting Number 3904351, $5000.00 to $6500.00
197? "4" bolt main 454 block, $3900.00 to $4200.00
197? "2" bolt main 454 block, $3000.00 to $3500.00
From my local Corvette dealer: Sell my big block parts and buy a crate engine; "...I am going down the wrong road.."

Question: Do you think the prices of the bare blocks cited above are fairly representative of what is currently available from commercial sources????

Thanks In Advance,
Rob

1967 351 blocks are scarce and pricey and $4800 for a good one is very fair. I don't think 72 or later 454's should cost nearly as much are you were quoted.

[Rob V.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

Joe and Patrick--

Thank you very much for taking the time to respond! I will narrow my search to just 454 blocks.

Thanks again!
Rob

[Joe L.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

Joe and Patrick--

Thank you very much for taking the time to respond! I will narrow my search to just 454 blocks.

Thanks again!
Rob

Rob------


Any 454 block can be changed to a 427 just by changing the crank. But why? External differences between a 454 and 427 are negligible.

[Rob V.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

As always, "thanks Joe" for the additional information. I will limit my search for a 454, especially since I have a new, never used LS-7 454 crankshaft. (no substitute for cubic inches).

Rob

[Joe L.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

Joe-- Thank you for your further response. Perhaps you can help with this follow-on question: Does GM still manufacture a "new" Mark IV bare big block??? (I can not locate my GM Performance Parts book). Thanks again, Rob

Rob------


I nearly missed this question. The answer is, for all practical purposes, no. GM has not manufactured a cast iron Mark IV big block in many years. However, they do still offer the "ZL-1" aluminum block. This engine is "mostly" a Mark IV but there are many external differences between a cast iron and aluminum big block. .

[Patrick H.]

Re: Question: '65 Through '67 Big Blocks

Rob------


I nearly missed this question. The answer is, for all practical purposes, no. GM has not manufactured a cast iron Mark IV big block in many years. However, they do still offer the "ZL-1" aluminum block. This engine is "mostly" a Mark IV but there are many external differences between a cast iron and aluminum big block. .

I've heard that you can put one of these in a Corvette, but it's a 20 year project.