ok... here we go,first question!

hello all, Just joined today. First question... I have two 350 blocks to choose from for my mild build. What I mean by "mild build" is pretty much everything stock, Maybe bore the block to gain a bit more cubic inches. I also am looking at a higher performance cam, intake and carb. Other than that, I just want to keep it as simple as possible. (remember first time build here)
Ok, back to my question. I have two blocks, both have the casting number 3970010, but one is stamped V02 17 CUB, and the other is stamped ML 14800.
The V 02 17 CUB is a two bolt main where as the ML 14800 is a four bolt. This 4bolt block is one of those Goodwrench "made in Mexico" blocks. the V02 block I believe might be a better performance block? Here is where my question comes in. Can any one possibly translate what exactly what blocks I have? And If you had to make a choice for a build, what block would you prefer? Would the 4bolt win because it's a 4bolt? Or do you take the possibly better V02 block even though it is only 2bolt? I understand there will be a lot of different circumstances in what one person thinks from the next. But what I am looking for is not only the answers to my questions, but guidance as well. I value your opinions, and appreciate your suggestions. Thanks ,Gene

You will find this page very helpful.
http://mortec.com/

On just a mild build for a street car that won't see any hard track or street use, the block numbers don't mean near as much as the quality of the machine work and parts that go into it!!!! Over the years, I'd guess I've had more 2 bolt main blocks then 4, and have yet to have a block go bad---well, except maybe for a rod or two getting loose and making an extra hole---but even then, it was no fault of the block....

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Originally Posted by Packergene

hello all, Just joined today. First question... I have two 350 blocks to choose from for my mild build. What I mean by "mild build" is pretty much everything stock, Maybe bore the block to gain a bit more cubic inches. I also am looking at a higher performance cam, intake and carb. Other than that, I just want to keep it as simple as possible. (remember first time build here)
Ok, back to my question. I have two blocks, both have the casting number 3970010, but one is stamped V02 17 CUB, and the other is stamped ML 14800.
The V 02 17 CUB is a two bolt main where as the ML 14800 is a four bolt. This 4bolt block is one of those Goodwrench "made in Mexico" blocks. the V02 block I believe might be a better performance block? Here is where my question comes in. Can any one possibly translate what exactly what blocks I have? And If you had to make a choice for a build, what block would you prefer? Would the 4bolt win because it's a 4bolt? Or do you take the possibly better V02 block even though it is only 2bolt? I understand there will be a lot of different circumstances in what one person thinks from the next. But what I am looking for is not only the answers to my questions, but guidance as well. I value your opinions, and appreciate your suggestions. Thanks ,Gene

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Hi People,
I had a 2 bolt 010 made into a 355in and had no trouble with it in
187000. when it was ENGINEERED and balanced all I fitted was Milodon
and ARP bolts on the Heads//Con rods and Mains.Just to be very certain.
I have broken old standard bolts while removing them from the block.
Fatigue in motor parts can kill it.If you can afford good quality then use it.
There is enough advice in these and other forums to last you a life time
and most experience has been paid for in blood, sweat and tears and most
of these people have done the hard miles...Maybe we should do a
survey of which is the best hand cleaner??? All the best to all..S/King..
of these people have d

Well welcome aboard Gene---since you are practically next door to us---give Corey a call 630-532-4052-- we can assist you and show you various components to fit about aany budjet or HP levels you'd want.

Jerry

I thought he was looking to learn what he had , not looking for a ready set go.

Since he is just a few blocks from us, it would be well worth his time to see what everyone is talking about---in a short visit, he can see all about boring, honing, torque plates, balancing, heads, etc----or he can try to read threads and look at a Jegs or Summit catologue or check E-crap

Welcome Gene!

I've been doing this for 40 years and I'd love to come to Jerry's (or Pat's McCarthy's) place! Coffee with a pro engine builder and up close and personal attention to the detail that goes into a proper build is invaluable and I would encourage you to take Jerry up on his offer. You'll leave with some good ideas and a clearer focus on your engine building vision!

Have Fun,
Glenn