Are sleeves a bad thing???

quebow03 · #1 (**permalink**) 03-04-2004, 11:29 PM

I have been in search of a 427 SO block and have found some with 1 or several sleeves in it. Is this a bad thing? I understand the principle behind putting the sleeve in but does it jepordize the integrity of the engine in any way???

HighPlainsDrifter · #2 (**permalink**) 03-04-2004, 11:42 PM

Hi,
No it doesn't affect the engine having a sleeve, all aluminum blocks have them. What will is if the machine shop didn't do a good job installing the sleeve, just like any other part of the engine it has to machined properly.
Perry.

DAVID GAGNARD · #3 (**permalink**) 03-05-2004, 04:20 AM

I do not know much about 427 engines,but there is a guy over here that races Supergas on the NHRA circuit,running a 600 cu in pro-stock style motor,1000hp....Tore up his engine about three years ago the weekend before a big race,did not have time to get another block,sleeved two cylinders,said it would get by till he could get another block done,still has not got the block yet,this engine just keeps on running,the same goes with a buddy that vintage races a 65 Mustang with a Boss 302 block,he just has one sleeve in that one....

For a street enigne I do not think you would have any problems......

David

Loadco · #4 (**permalink**) 03-05-2004, 05:38 AM

I'm going the other way on this one. The walls on the 427 block are not that thick. I my opinion you are asking for trouble. If you go that route, make sure the engine shop has experience with 427's.

slithering · #5 (**permalink**) 03-05-2004, 06:44 AM

quebow03,

There's nothing wrong with sleeving, as long as they're machined correctly. Sleeves actually give more integrity to the block. They are hardened steel, much harder than the cast walls of the block. Of course it's ideal if you find a block that's not been bored, but they're very rare. Don't be afraid of sleeving.

slithering

wpasicznyk · #6 (**permalink**) 03-05-2004, 09:44 AM

If you were to have all the cylinders sleeved in a 427, you'd likely have a stronger and more reliable engine than one that is all original. Basically, you would know all the cylinders are equally thick, and thick enough to handle a reasonable amount of power. That's why most drag racers fill the lower water passages, block integrity, as that's the first place the cylinders will crack.