wow i wasnt expecting the new dart big m block to arrive until after jan first . they just dropped it off 5 min ago . big smiles here

If you have access to a 4-bolt production big block, put 'em on engine stands side by side and compare them. The differences are amazing. When you add them all up, it's no wonder that the Dart can take at least twice as much abuse as the production piece. If you're serious about horsepower - 1000+ - aftermarket makes much more sense. If you do everything possible to extend the capabilities of a production block, you'll be so close to the cost of a Dart or Merlin that it will almost be a wash. Brodix introduced their aluminum block a few months back and it's something to see as well. I saw one that had been sent out along with heads and intake for a full polish job. That was some kinda pretty engine on the stand, but the way I see it, most of the work was a waste of time when the engine is between the frame rails.