Okay don't laugh, but when you buy a built short block are you just buying an engine like you already have, but re-enforced? What is the pricing on an install for something like that? Does it take days to do as well? I know these are alot of questions, but I am just trying to learn. I hear of all the talk of a new short block. With the mods that I have right now does the new block give you any more hp or is it just re-enforcing for later mod additions w/ greater hp? Please help me to understand the whole short block thing. Thanks.

 

Good question, anyone?

 

Boone52 - Nothing to laugh about..i had the same question when i first got here ....everyone is here to help each other..

A built motor is everyone's dream here...the reason it's a dream is because it costs so much and adds no hp to your truck (unless you add new cams - which could add 35-75 hp)....it's insurance that things don't break and gives you peace of mind when spraying or upgrading your S/C. A built motor is basically the block and internals, already assembled, and yes, it has to be installed....usually comes crated....all you have to do is take the other engine components and swap them...

you have the other scenereo where you can just buy the internals ($1000-$2000) and have someone sway them out of your current block....either way it will cost you at least $4500 -$5000 (parts, labor to remove engine, then labor to take things out, labor to put things back in, blueprint and balance and labor to reinstall)....that's why many people just push the envelope with the bolt ons and hope nothing goes boom..

do a search and you should find plenty of info...

 

thanks!! Is a built block sent by a leading vendor more reliable than buying the parts and upgrading yours? The cams add that much more? Would you suggest that since the engine is out when changing out the block to change the cams? Again thank you for the info and helpin me out!

 

A properly built and balanced shortblock will give you HP gains. Tighter tolerances and a properly balanced rotating assembly reduce drag and let the motor "spin itself" more easily. A gain of 20-30hp from this is pretty commonplace. Of course in terms of Cost to H.P. it's not like a chip and pulley,

 

whats the diff between a short and long block?

::waits to be shot::

 

no heads and heads, respectively.

--Rip

 

you can get both a built motor or just the parts (internals) from the vendors (JDM, JLP, PSP, REM). If you live near one (like i do) then you can have them install the internals in your block. Some vendors require a core return when buying a built motor (you return your block and internals to them), others don't.

I plan on changing the cams when changing the internals...eveything's opened up, might as well...and what's another $1000, when you're dropping $5000 on the motor???

 

Don't forget to go stroker, too! I believe our famous vendors have done this with their race L's (not all, but a few).

D-Day