what year diesel blocks are good to use? i found a 1979 olds 5.7 diesel 350D for $150. is that a good block? looking for a high performance build.

 

Diesel blocks are good for serious high HP builds and get expensive. Either a 350 or the 403 that you already have will be fine for what you are trying to do. Diesel engines have 3" mains, so you either need to cut on a 425 crank or use spacers. To answer your question, most guys prefer the later DX blocks.

 

I hate to say this, but it sounds like your Ritalin is wearing off...

Not to say that I've never redirected a project midway through after spending more money than I should have...

Seriously, you're asking a lot of good questions, but as you've already pointed out in another of your threads, you already have all the parts for the 403. Build it and enjoy it.

Oh, and if you don't grab that diesel for $150, you're crazy.

 

i am going to build the 403. i just was curious about the 455 and the 350 diesel. Is the 350 d block i mentioned a good block because im probably going to go pick it up for a future build like you said? what are the differences between the d and dx? which is more desirable for a high performance build? I think the differences are in lifter bore diameter but im not sure.

 

How much are the blocks worth? i found another out of 1981 caddy seville 5.7 diesel front wheel drive with tranny. $150

 

Are you looking to convert the diesel block into a gasser? If so then I'd go with the DX block due to it's high bottom end strength (massive main webs).

There was one in the junkyard here a while ago. I still kick myself for not buying it.

 

ANY Olds diesel block will have "massive main webs" as compared to a gas motor.

 

so which is better then the d or dx?

 

The d block is the early diesel block, dx is the later block either one would be great to use for a build. Most people consider the dx to be block of choice.

 

Wish mine was a D instead of a DX. I wouldn't have had to bush the lifter bores to use .842 solid roller lifters.