My bad I was rushingbecause I was posting from work. It is not what I'm looking for. The Aluminum blocks are good for more than 1500hp (not rwhp). I heard that steel block will make more power at those levels due to distortion with the aluminum blocks, but I have no intention to go there.

My understanding was that NO machining is required for a 402 build. Now most shops will do some clean-up work, but no clearancing is required.

Ben I think what you are talking about is a high-nickel iron block, not steel. I've read that the high-nickel LS-X blocks can handle around 2500hp.

I think for what Carlos is doing that a stock block will be the best combination of low cost and light weight.

I agree.

This is not my understanding. I thought a 383 was a drop-in, but a 402 required something to be cleared, but I certainly don't know for sure. :huh:

I get it about the aluminum, I was just trying to think of a clever/cheap way to do what you want while having the potential to go into the stratosphere. :drink: BTW, the builder said the weight difference in the block is only 75 lbs, the same as the difference between a an aluminum and iron Gen III.

iron vs. steel
Good point. I get a little sloppy with alloys. What's the difference between cast iron (high carbon) vs. steel (low carbon). I mean, when/how does one become the other? Time for some Wiki or How Stuff Works yee ha.