I am now trying to learn about the bottom half of the LT1. I have a block waiting for a 383 build up but need to do homework ( And save $$$ ) What does it mean to be splayed & what, if any, are the benefits. Thanks. P.S. There will probably be a lot more uneducated questions coming from me over the next few months so be patient. PPPLLEEASSEEEE

 

The outer bolts on "splayed" caps are angled outward as this picture shows pretty well: http://www.sdpc2000.com/images/produ...0_6781996.jpg. This means that the outer bolt/stud is threaded into a stronger part of the block than with straight caps. FWIW I am currently running straight nodular iron 4-bolt caps like this http://www.sdpc2000.com/images/produ...09_4526595.jpg and the motor is still together after two years and >12K miles with >700rwhp. So these must truly be need only for pretty exotic buildups.

Rich Krause

 

In my opinion... and this is based on my conversations with some really good builders over the years.... the 4-bolt is good enough for any street driven car. If you have a race-only (especially endurance type race) engine then I'd definitely step up to splay.

My old factory 4-bolt 377's bearings looked much worse off after a season of thrashing in that block than they did in my splayed bow-tie block. Hard to say... could have had alot more to do with superior oiling and having a precision machined block. That's what keeps engines alive though, even the production blocks.

-Mindgame

 

Thanks guys... Rich.... I couldn't open the picture of the splayed caps. Just so you know. Thanks

 

Here's the corrected link for the splayed type...