New ZL-1 Block "Finally" Dynoed & Installed

[TXSS]

There seams to be a lot of interest on this site and others in the new and the old ZL-1 blocks. For those that have an interest, "finally" my new 053 ZL-1 block is built, dynoed and installed. Built to factory specs with the exception of 10.5:1 comp ratio. Not bad for a factory rated 425HP plant.

Rick

[CamarosRus]

Very interested to read and SEE all about this project......and what is your intent......I mean to replicate a REAL ZL-1 or ??????

[Brett68]

Awesome!! Wish I could hear it run! What type of AC/heater block off plate is that? Just what I've been looking for.

[nuch_ss396]

Rick,

You have my interest peaked!

Tell me a lot more....

Steve

[71-LS6]

Nice numbers!

[TXSS]

Thanks for the comments. This is my third ZL-1 engine with the previous two being 052 blocks. Both had there issues. neither looked that great and both had porosity problems that were easily solved but still a concern. The new blocks are vastly superior in every way less the nostalgia associated with the vintage blocks. I built the engine as well as the Camaro using all the necessary ZL-1 components that would have any noticeable effect on the way the car ran, drove or looked. The engine was built with correct 7115 crank, 403 bell housing and ZL-1 clutch configuration, 620 lift mach. cam, 074 heads, 198 intake, 4295 holly carb., ZL-1 Hurst shifter, 69 M22 4sp, Eagle rods, TRW forged pistons. For example, no BE rear end because that has no real effect on the way the ZL-1 ran or drove. They may have lasted longer but added no more to the way the car ran than the 4:10 12 bolt posi that I have in the car. When I drive the car I want to know that this is the way a real ZL-1 ran and drove when it was new. I hope to have the project completed by this Friday. I'll post more pics as soon as I can. I don't consider it a clone. It's simple a 1969 ZL-1 427 Powered Camaro.

Thanks again
Rick

[ChevyThunder]

Rick.. looks sweet ! I just had my new engine on the dyno about the same time.. our numbers are very similar !

[zl1vette]

Rick and Van,

Those are BOTH some fantastic engines!!! What type of exhaust were you guys running?

Van, is your motor in stock trim also, or did you change some of the specs?


BW

[TXSS]

Van - those numbers look very similar. Looks like you inched me out at the end. Tell me more about how your engine is set up.

BW - I'm running 2-1/2" aluminized through 40-series Flowmasters. It sounds great. My engine builder told me that I should pick up 20 more HP than the dyno because the headers used on the dyno were a little to big for this engine. OK, I'll take it.

Rick

[ChevyThunder]

Sorry guys I should have clarified what motor I have.. it is not a ZL1 motor... it is a 400 inch 23 degree Bowtie small block .9:5 to 1 pump gas motor . I am going to dress the motor just like my stock DZ 302 .
Rick , I would gladly give up the HP number for your Torque number Regardless of performance.. nothing looks beter to me than an all aluminum BB .Your engine compartment is looking awesome !