I am just about ready to begin building a 455 for my 67 gs400 and wonderd about the need for the main girdle. I'm planning on building a 500 to 550hp strip motor 10.25 to1 with a set of stage 2 heads and a TA 510 cam. Should I go ahead and put the girdle in money permiting? thanks
Clint - Welcome to the board!:TU: 550hp or so, seems to be the 'line in the sand' - so to speak. You might consider what your future plans for your combo might be. Sooner or later, you'll probably get the bug to go even a little bit faster!!:Brow: That might make you lean towards either installing the TA Perf. girdle, or the Poston girdled oil pan. But...if you think this build will last for quite some time, there are plenty of guys running in that 500hp-550hp range with NO girdle - and having no problems whatsoever. One other thing you may wish to factor in to your decision, is the release of the heavy duty iron 455 by Jim Burek - PAE Enterprises. Or...the aluminum 455 block from Mike T. - TA Performance. The iron block should be out by the end of the year...the aluminum block shouldn't be too much after that.o No:
GIRDLE Clint, if you use lightweight aftermarket rods & pistons, you will lighten the load on the block & will allow you to run 550hp & keep the bottom end intact. I here that pinning the main caps helps too if not running a girdle. Most of the Buick engine builders will not cross the 600hp without girdling block. Randy
Thanks for the info guys knowing how I am I probably better go with the girdle. Just have to save a few more greenbacks. Again thanks for the info, Clint.
The line? Clint, I will let you know soon I think I might of stepped over the line with my new engine,I'll let you know this weekend...Chris
