We machine the block, balance the crank and check clearances.
The Dart Iron Eagle 351W block is a precision-cast and raw-machined product of unparalleled quality. Dart provides a bit of extra deck height and minimal bore diameter, allowing the builder to precisely achieve desired dimensions.
By Mike Mavrigian
all photos by author
CYLINDER BORES AND BLOCK DECK MACHINING
Our block [...]
Mittler Bros. Machine & Tool, a respected supplier of premium fabrication tools and racing components, is pleased to announce that it now offers steel billet crankshafts for racing and specialty applications. Mittler Bros. acquired the crankshaft segment of Grand Rapids, MI based Oliver Racing Parts. Cranks are produced for many diverse markets including oval track [...]
This article provides insight regarding CNC machining of engine blocks. If you ever wondered about this technology, this article provides the answers.
CNC Machining Pt 1
CNC Machining Pt 2
Today’s CAD programs offer definitive X-, Y- and Z-axis depictions of specific blocks, providing you have access to these programs.
While seasoned engine builders understand what the term “blueprinting” means, chances are most of their customers don’t. Too many neophytes think that balancing and blueprinting go hand-in-hand. They blindly assume that if the crank has been balanced, that must mean that the engine has been blueprinted.
All head studs were installed finger-tight.
Our taller-than-OE Crane roller lifters required the use of spacer washers between the block and lifter buckets.
The oiled roller lifters are inserted into the OE plastic lifter buckets. These register flat-to-flat, orienting the lifters properly for roller bearing operation at the lobes.
With all four lifters snapped into the lifter bucket, [...]
All main studs are installed finger-tight, with just an added scooch to make sure they’re seated.
The main caps slid on easily, with no stud splaying interference.
Be careful when installing the main caps. Each cap is numbered for location, as is the block. Be sure to install caps with cap numbers on the same side of [...]
LS PROJECT, PART 2
BLOCK PREP AND BALANCING
by Mike Mavrigian
all photos by author
We swapped out the OE torque-plus-angle main cap bolts for a set of ARP studs. This will provide added strength and will eliminate wear on the block’s female threads during future servicing.
I recently visited Gressman Powersports where Scott Gressman decked our block, honed the [...]
A precision mounting plate is installed to the rear of the block. This accurately locates the block to the machine’s base fixture.
A centering bar is inserted through the main bores.
The main bore centering bar is bushed to accommodate the specific block’s main bore diameter.
A camshaft tunnel centering bar helps the machine to locate the block. [...]
CNC-MACHINING AN ENGINE BLOCK
A step-by-step overview of a
specific block being machined
on a CNC from start to finish.
by Mike Mavrigian
all photos by author
CNC machines vary in terms of footprint size and axis capabilities.
Thinking about taking the plunge and buying a CNC (computer numeric control) machine? Or have you wondered what’s involved in machining a block on [...]
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