in need of a 427 block...recommendations

[69Tom]

As I had to sell my block for financial reasons, I now am in the market for a block to build an L72 motor. This is not a number's matching car. I do, however, have the correct intake, heads, crank, cam, rods, pistons, lifters for a 1969 L72. I pretty much just need the block.

I have a couple questions:

1) I am on a very tight budget, so the less $ I spend on the block, the better. What block would you recommend? I will not be racing this car. Just mainly for pure enjoyment and driving about. I've been looking for 3963512 blocks, but all I see are quite expensive.

2) While I figure it depends on the wear of them, am I able to use my original L72 TRW pistons? Or is it ill advised, even if I'm able to find a standard bore block due to the inevitable wear (even if slight) they've received?

If it matters, this is going into my 1969 Biscayne. I'm also open to trades--all my L72 stuff for a mostly complete L36. however, I know the L36's are going for quite a bit of $ not too, so not sure if that's even realistic given my financial constraints.

Anyway, thanks for the help.

[427.060]

Maybe a 2 bolt 512 cast 454 block? You could pick up one for a couple hundred dollars.
James

[69Tom]

James, I've thought about that. Are those blocks balanced different or would I have to have a bunch of work done on it? Or is it pretty much the same thing? Thanks.

[SuperNovaSS]

Where can you find a 2 bolt 512 for a couple hundred? 71 512 blocks are a bit cheaper but I have not seen one for a couple hundred.

Tom, you could also use a later model 454 block. They are easy to located, inexpensive and are the same as the 427 block. I have even seen new later model blocks for sale in the past so fairly inexpensive prices. If you find a new block, you could use you standard pistons.


Jason

[69Tom]

Thanks Jason. What year/casting numbers would I be looking for? And why kind of price range for a new one?

I appreciate the help.

[SuperNovaSS]

The most commonly seen ones are: 14015445, 361959, 3999289.

Here is a link to more:

http://www.teufert.net/bbchevy/bbcast.htm

[SuperNovaSS]

As far as finding a new block, maybe check with local machine shops and keep an eye on craigslist. The cost of having one shipped will probably keep it from being worth while so sticking local will probably be your best bet. Even a lightly used STD block could work for you. I believe you can get away with more clearance using forged pistons as opposed to cast ones.


Jason

[69Tom]

Thanks guys. I have tracked down one what is supposed to be standard bore here in Phoenix off CL. If I am unable to use my original L72 pistons, what can I expect to pay for a set? I've seen TRW piston sets for about $550, but I'm guessing there's other brands that aren't as expensive. Would like to use the original pistons tho, provided there's nothing wrong with em.

(I just got pics of the 361959 block I found. Looks quite nice....)

[69Tom]

I hope to be looking at this block tonight or tomorrow. I assume I should be taking some measurements to make sure it's ok, etc. Any tips?

[budnate]

yea buy a block from a seller that has just had it tested at a shop and has the paper to back up its not cracked, allready on a max bore, or line bore issues , otherwise a paperweight.