The block that I want to use is a 73 455. Should one always sonic test a 455 when building a hp engine? I hope I can get away with a .030 over bore. But might have to go .060.

 

no need to sonic test on a .030 on a 455. Def have it magnufluxed for cracks but you will be fine with .030-.060 over on the bore job.

 

Like L69 said its good for .030 and .060 so dont waste your money on sonic testing, if your reading the Mondello book they make you think you need to sonic test everything and cryo freeze every part, I agree 100% with L69! Dont forget to use a torque plate that is critical!

 

Personally I would sonic check any block I was gonna have bored. Better safe than sorry.

 

X2 on torque plates. U want those cylinders as round as possible under torque

 

They just finished my block today with align honing and honing the cylinders with the torque plate and using a 825grit stone new, I have never seen my cylinders look that good and measure out, The machinist were impressed at how quick it cleaned up and they think its going to be a good running engine. I got lucky on this one. There is a nighmare story on this motor.

 

.060 to.090 overbore i would sonic test also i have seen some pretty thin walls a few times.