[clayfoushee]

Dennis,

It helps A LOT! You're awesome. I'm attaching another picture of the other side of the block (pass. side). I don't think it has the big ribs you're describing, but I'm still a little confused about what "service block" means. The motor is currently equipped with solid lifters, so if it was a block designed for hydraulic lifters, don't know if there are any implications.

The block was bored "22 over," currently displacing 454 C.I. The builder told me it has a 428 Crank, Ford pistons, Elgin standard-type cam (lash adjustment is .025 and designed for low-end torque), Edelbrock Performer RPM alum. heads, turkey-pan, single carb (photo in my gallery).

The patch is also visible in the photo below...it's certainly not smooth, so probably not factory. Nonetheless, this engine has been flawless in my possession and has been a blast to drive. I plan on keeping this car the rest of my days, or at least until they carry me off to a home.

Thanks again for all the help.