Well Zip, I never thought about the heat factors on large journal mains...?
I have been hearing a lot about the much smaller "Honda Rod Journals" cranks, but have never seen or heard about smaller mains since extinction of the old 283/327 small journal GM blocks...?
The latest trend [I have been hearing and seeing around my scenes] is to go with big bores (4.125 or bigger) and long strokes (3.75+) for monster torque, and using a much taller gear to knock the RPMs down to a reasonable 7200 or less, also to help prevent blistering the tires off coming out of the corners. That is why Elmore talked my into benching the 3.625 stroke and going with the 3.75 stroke and 4.145 bore to make a 404 instead of the 388.
I agree Zip with ALL your reasons for NOT running oil restrictors in any Dart or World block, that is why I chose to splurge on this engine.
I will keep in mind about the smaller journal sizes and heat factor, as I think you are onto something here...
I think, besides cost savings, that may be one reason most circle track engine builders are now going to the SHP block in 350 mains rather than the Little M block with 400 mains. I was leaning toward the beefy bottom end strength and never considered additional heat factors.
One thought here though... NASCAR engines turn a lot more smooth, steady, consistent RPMs than our engines do, and do not take near the "beating" abuse that we dish out. I don't beleive those small journal engines could take the pounding abuse we give on our battlegrounds...?
I considered building a small journal, very short stroke, high revving screamer (3.00 or 3.25 stroke), but every time I mentioned that I was convinced that is definately the wrong direction for our type of racing abuse.
Also, if you have ever read most dirt track rules, we are very limited in what we are allowed to do. IMCA is VERY strict, with engine claim rules in every class, and top four car (each class) tech inspections every night.
No auminum heads or roller cams, and no quick change rear ends...
Thanks guys, I really appreciate and enjoy the sharing of info. Jim