Which stock windsor block is best for a stroker?

[Scott S]

I don't want to invest in one the new aftermarket blocks for a street motor but I loved the last stroker I built. I used a D2 code block last time and was wondering if there may be a better choice. From what I understand early Windsor blocks have a shorter deck and the newer blocks give up some on the main webbing.

Is there a range of block codes that may be best?

Scott S

[Jack21]

The D2 was a '72 block.

The '68 (C8), and '69 (C9) blocks were pretty beefy, but the block deck heights were 2/10" shorter. Aftermarket pistons will need to be skinned up to 2/10" to get Zero deck height. '70 up are all the same.

For a street motor, any '70 - up block will work, but using a '70 - '74 block 1) may be a little beefier, 2) will give you an over 25 year old motor for registration (Classic/Antique vehicle) and (non) required emissions testing purposes.

For a stroker, ask your machinist about installing aftermarket 4 bolt center main caps for additional bottom end strength. And, of course, ARP hardware on mains, and rods. (With 180,000 pounds tensile strength, one main bolt will lift an entire trailerload of Cobras, including the trailer, and not break.)

[Wade Chamberlain]

Originally posted by Jack21


(With 180,000 pounds tensile strength, one main bolt will lift an entire trailerload of Cobras, including the trailer, and not break.)

Only if your main bolt were a full square inch in cross sectional area!

180,000 PSI

[Jack21]

Yes, you're correct Wade.

[DAVID GAGNARD]

Scott;

Jack is absoutley correct....C-9 blocks are a little beefer but have a shorter deck height and are becoming very rare as each day goes by. From 70 to 74 the blocks are identical,the only difference is the year they were cast,from 75 on up,they "lightened" the blocks a tad,mostly in the bottom end....Anything from D0 to D4 is good or at least better than the D5 and up.....

Although I know a couple of drag racers that use whatever they can find and run approx. 500 to 750 hp on nitrous and say the newer blocks last just as long as the older ones,so who really knows??????????

Around here, D0 to D4 blocks can be found for 50 bucks or less,so I pick them up when I see them and store them in the corner of the workshop....

Just the other day a buddy who is restoring a 69 Cougar gave my friend a 9" rear end and a complete running 69 351-W out of his parts car with 66,000 miles on it. He going to go thru the motor and put it in his 67 Fastback.... Some people have all the luck...........

David