Aluminum Big Blocks

[BillyBobL71]

Am starting another 69 Camaro PT project and am going to go with somewhat of a "ZL-1" theme.

My question is if anyone has had any experience with GM's new version of the ZL-1 block and how it compares with the likes of a Merlin Lite or a Donovan Block. I know the latter are much bigger, but I kind of like the fact that this would be a "real" ZL-1.

I've seen the ZL-1 listed with a bore size of 4.11 and also 4.25. Don't know which is correct. If one went with the 4.375 crank, that would make it a 496. Is there a problem with have the stroke bigger than the bore?

Thanks,
Bill

[camcojb]

Just started assembling one yesterday for a friend. He's doing a 482. It is a 4.25" bore. It is a nice piece, well machined and uses all the standard big block fare. As long as you're not looking at 800+ HP it's a nice way to go.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2004/12/ross20003-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2004/12/ross20005-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2004/12/ross20006-1.jpg


Jody

[BillyBobL71]

Thanks for the reply Jody, I wondered if you would chime in. Am curious as to how you arrived at 482, and what you expect this motor to eventually pull. I guess I'm interested in your opinion if you were to build the "ZL-1" now "Aluminator" again what block would you start with.

I would like to end up with a naturally aspirated, injected motor that is reliable, will run on pump gas with a cam that can actually be driven on the street. Is 600+ doable at the crank?

Bill

[camcojb]

482 = 4.25" bore and 4.25" stroke. The owner wanted to keep it relatively mild. I'm expecting 640-650 HP so 600 is definitely possible. This is a nice block to build, although a Dart, KB, Arias, etc. are even stronger and less money. He wanted a GM engine and at that cid you don't need the spread pan rails, raised cam, etc. that many of the others have. They just add up to more expensive oil pans, timing chains/gear/belts, etc. when you start moving things around like the rails and cam. Now if you're building a 540 or similar the spread rails and raised cam are a blessing.

Jody