sbc 400
 

I have a 511 block i would like to know all the ways to prep this block while i have it torn down for all the cooling ideas, as we know stock 400 have heating problems, i never owned one maybe i can get lucky

Before you spend any time on that block have it sonic tested for cylinder wall thickness so you know you have a good foundation to start with.

X2 sonic test and i tap and plug the steam hole with set screwa, this helps to keep the bolt holes from cracking thru to them.

JMO

Zip.

400 block
 

If you can find the old Bill Jenkins book on SBC engines it has a very detailed descripton with pics of deck surface modifications.

There are extra holes to drill and holes to tap and plug besides the steam holes. The big water jacket holes also get tapped and plugged with 5/16" holes in the plugs if I remember right.

One block I did from that old article lasted 7 seasons racing every weekend. 377" @ 600 HP

511 is the 4 bolt main block i think,the 2 bolt main block is stronger,but my 406(511) has been abused for a couple of yers at the track and so far so good.

sbc 400
 

Hi, jeff what did you do to it to make it strong

Re: sbc 400
 

After talking with you this morning and your block is already .060 over sonic test it for sure!!!!

sbc 400
 

Hi , every one for the info,my email is [email protected], Mr, hink.

Re: sbc 400
 

nothing at all,its only 30 over.Ive talked to people with the same block and most said they never had any problems at all.I would guess if you use good internal parts like i did you should not have any problems,but 60 over in a stock 511 block better fill it up with concrete.

Wow .060 on a stock SB block of any kind, better have it sonic tested for sure. I think how much HP you are planning to make would guide you one way or the other about using a stock 400 block. The last one we built made 700+HP, two bolt w/splayed caps added. NEVER again. Too much money in machine work compared to buying an aftermarket block and less strength.

Curtis