I've been planning on a 496 build. However, yesterday ...my "engine guy" offered me a GM 502 block, with steel main caps, fully prepped, .. for $1250. Typical "hipo" machine work has previously been done. One of his customers is switching over to an aluminum block, and this one is avaliable. I currently have a 454 2 bolt block. Cost for machine work and prep would be, ...approx $800.

Besides, the lack of mechanical fuel pump provision, are there any draw backs going this route? I know rotating assemblies for both are nearly identical. As far as heads, with a 496, I was going to use Brodix RR Ovals. Are these too small for a 540? I'm trying to avoid header fitment problems, associated with raised ports. This will be a street/strip engine with hydraulic roller cam. Cost wise, I'm assuming it's not much more to build the 540.

Appreciate all the info, details, recommendations, suggestions, etc ..that I can get. ..before I jump in. Thanks!

i say go for the 540 , thats sounds like a great deal on the block !!!!! I also say get the racerites but in the rectangle port! ALL you need is a huge hyd roller cam and you will have all the power your tires can handle.I just couldn't see passing up that fully machined block.And hey 454 blocks are fairly easy to come by opposed to the 502 blocks.Maybe you could even sell the 454 block and kinda break even.

good luck on the build

I've been planning on a 496 build. However, yesterday ...my "engine guy" offered me a GM 502 block, with steel main caps, fully prepped, .. for $1250. Typical "hipo" machine work has previously been done. One of his customers is switching over to an aluminum block, and this one is avaliable. I currently have a 454 2 bolt block. Cost for machine work and prep would be, ...approx $800.

Besides, the lack of mechanical fuel pump provision, are there any draw backs going this route? I know rotating assemblies for both are nearly identical. As far as heads, with a 496, I was going to use Brodix RR Ovals. Are these too small for a 540? I'm trying to avoid header fitment problems, associated with raised ports. This will be a street/strip engine with hydraulic roller cam. Cost wise, I'm assuming it's not much more to build the 540.

Appreciate all the info, details, recommendations, suggestions, etc ..that I can get. ..before I jump in. Thanks!
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Brian,,
Don't even hesitate :thumbsup:
Doing your block correctly is going to cost you damn near what that block is being offered for at any reputable performance shop..
And you are correct, the rotating assembly is going to be very close in price, the pistons & rings are a few bucks more but not much.

The Ovals will be a joke on the 540 though
Time to step up to a set of AFR 325's with the CNC chamber
or the 335's if in the budget
The .375 exhaust port on the AFR's has just not been that big of a deal compared to the .600 of others.
And they do make power,,,,,

Give me a shout ;)