Tall deck Vs Short deck blocks??

[Supercharged]

What would be the difference, when choosing a new block between a tall deck, and short deck block. I know the obvious is in height but would the tall deck be better for strokers with long strokes, but less compression. Seems to me the short deck would offer more compression, but requires a shorter stroke. Any info on this.

Mike

[Glen440]

The reason people use the short deck blocks for stroking is because you can use a big stroke and long rods, but you use shorter pistons so it cuts down on weight. And the block is lighter and smaller for easier fitting into cars. The reason people go through so much trouble to make a 400 a 451 is because the end result is basically a 440 but the pistons are real light so it will love to rev. You can get 500-600 gram pistons for the 451 and TRW 440 pistons are around 900 grams. You may not be able to stroke the short deck as high as the tall one though but you can get over 500 with the short.

[DartGT66]

I would say that for street use the biggest sensible stroke for the B-block is 3.91", after that you start compromising the rod length and have to use short rods. The 400 block isn't much lighter than a 440 block; depending on the block the 400 block can be even heavier but typically they are 10-15 lbs lighter. It's also narrower about an inch, so in a tight angine compartment you'll have some additional room . You'll really appreciate that for example in A-bodies. Perhaps the most significant advantage of using the B-block is that it's stiffer than the RB block. The water jackets are shorter and therefore the cylinderwalls stiffer, it also has more meat at the main cap area and can handle more power for a longer period than a RB block without cracking.

[Doug Wilson]

What DartGT66 says. My opinion (worth what you're paying for it) is that in almost any application, a "B" block is a better starting platform than an "RB". Unfortunately, I didn't learn this until my RB was almost done. The importance of stiffness can't be over-emphasized(Amen from Audrey - Doug's wife) in any type of performance or heavy duty engine. I have also been told that an assembled B(manifolds, etc. installed) is more like 50 pounds lighter. ...thinking from Doug ...GOD BLESS AMERICA

[NotaHemi]

While you guys are throwing this stuff around..
What the hell is an 'A' a 'B' and an 'R/B ?! I have no idea. By the way- Doug- I'm gonna take your advice and kick the 360 stroker in the balls and go with the 440 for my Challenger. Should be able to rock out with my c*ck out with that in there!!

[rumblefish360]

"A" engine... Old style small block "Poly" 277,301 & 318.
"LA" engine...273,318.340 & 360
"B" engine...350, 361, 383 & 400
"RB" engine...413, 426 (not hemi) & 440
"426 HEMI" ...All by it's self. Although there were many other HEMI engines through the years. Most popular was the 392. Other displacements wnet from 350 & down. I forget the smallest one. 241???
There was also a 383 RB in '57.

[Doug Wilson]

"A" block = early, non-hemi, small block - displacements from 241 cu in to 318( also 277 and 301, I think). "B" block = first non-hemi big block - starting in 1958 - displacements of 350, 361, 383 and 400 cu in. "RB" = raised block - deck height 3/4 in taller than "B" - displacements of 383(rare & old), 413, 426 and 440. The 426 Hemi is based on a 440 RB. The early hemis came in three different block physical sizes for Dodge, Desoto and Chrysler, starting in 1950, and I think the displacements ranged from 240 cu in to 392 - some of which(probably wrong here) were 300, 331, 354, and 392. The later model small blocks are called "LA" blocks in 273, 318, 340 & 360 - from 1964 through 1991. The later "LA" blocks have roller lifters and other mods(oiling system, etc.) and are the "Magnum" small blocks. The newest, overhead cammers, I have no idea what they are called. Hope this helps and isn't too confusing. ..Regards from the muddled mind of Doug

[Doug Wilson]

Between us, I think RumbleFish and I got the "block" stuff covered. NotaHemi - I think you will be very pleased with your choice. Without going to a stroker 400, you can't lose with a 440. It's a great and classic engine & Landy just proved it's a lot more motor than Froods and Chimmys. I would have bet on the Chimmy in the shoot-out, cause the magazines always seem to set up shoot-outs so the Chevs win. Nice to see one done right. I got booted off one of the other forums when I (nicely) pointed this out!