How much power can a 2 bolt BBC block take?

[Tahoe540]

I just built a 2 bolt short block that is studded with a stud girdle. This one has a crower 4.25 crank and crower I-beam rods with Mahle forged pistons. How much power you think a short block like this can handle?

 

[Runs2rch]

That setup, no boost probably live at 675-700hp.

 

[mattyc]

Hmmm, I'm not sure, but I think you should find out and report back

 

[Fastdadtsmith]

@obnoxious001 to the white courtesy phone.

Is that racist?

 

[obnoxious001]

It will largely depend on how the engine is being used. I know a guy who had a blown 496 that lasted some time with a two bolt, but when I took it apart you could see the caps had been walking.

It's been some time since I have had one done, but a two bolt 454 can be converted to a 4 bolt, either with aftermarket caps, or some factory GM caps that match up close enough side to side.

 

[SBMech]

Live forever or just a few passes?

Hot rod has done to turbo builds on junkyard 2 bolts that handled 1500hp for multiple pulls.

Longevity? Most anyone would be guessing without knowing the rest of the specifics like oiling, compression, boosted or NA, how much boost etc.

I'd guess it could handle 6-700HP pretty easily if it's got decent oiling and was assembled correctly.

 

[Husqy510]

I made nearly 600hp in a boosted sbf with a stock block, and it was dead reliable for years. I guess it comes down to how it was built and how you treat it.

My motor had a conservative tune with good ignition, a quality fuel system and an air to water intercooler. I also kept the rpms below 6k.