What is a sportsman block?

Dirtrich · #1 (**permalink**) 03-03-2003, 09:35 PM

Can anyone please explain exactly what a Sportsman block is and how it differs from the other ford blocks. Are they newly cast
or from the '60s/'70s? How does the quality of these blocks compare to the other 351's? (Standard,SVO, Racing etc)

I know they have a two bolt main but are supposed to good for up to 500hp or more.

Thanks, Rich

ffsnake · #2 (**permalink**) 03-04-2003, 12:28 AM

Rich,

To quote Ford Motorsport catalog:
This block is special formulated cast iron (nodular) for improved hardness, strength and dimentional stability. the bearing webs are thicker and can be machined for 4 bolt mains.
The pan rail is thicker and the lower end is reinforced.

Dale

Bart Carter · #3 (**permalink**) 03-04-2003, 10:28 AM

The A351 Sportsman block is no longer available unless you can find a dealer with an unsold one.

The replacement is the D351 Amateur Competition Block. It is also known as the 351 Ford Racing Truck Block and is listed (again) in the Sportsman Engine Parts of the Ford Racing Performance Parts catalog.

The D351 is a remanufactured production block with a 4.030 bore, 2-bolt nodular iron bearing caps. 190 lbs. Can be stroked to 427 cu. Recommended max HP is 500.

As an interesting note, the A351 block is being used the the 392 stroker short block and 392 stroker long block offerings from Ford.