sbc 400

Old 03-24-2010, 08:25 AM
  #1  
chubbyx1
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Default 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
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Old 03-24-2010, 12:32 PM
  #2  
hink
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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.
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Old 03-24-2010, 03:04 PM
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zipper06
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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.
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Old 03-24-2010, 03:40 PM
  #4  
markdunlap
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Default 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
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Old 03-25-2010, 03:26 AM
  #5  
JEFF69Z28
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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.
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Old 03-25-2010, 06:22 AM
  #6  
chubbyx1
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Default sbc 400

Hi, jeff what did you do to it to make it strong
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Old 03-25-2010, 08:13 AM
  #7  
hink
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Default Re: sbc 400

Originally Posted by chubbyx1
Hi, jeff what did you do to it to make it strong
After talking with you this morning and your block is already .060 over sonic test it for sure!!!!
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Old 03-25-2010, 08:19 AM
  #8  
chubbyx1
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Default sbc 400

Hi , every one for the info,my email is [email protected], Mr, hink.
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Old 03-25-2010, 10:22 AM
  #9  
JEFF69Z28
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Default Re: sbc 400

Originally Posted by chubbyx1
Hi, jeff what did you do to it to make it strong
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.
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Old 03-25-2010, 11:26 AM
  #10  
curtisreed
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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
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