Description:
Big Block Chevy has long been synonymous with Big Power. These engines are a proven, straightforward way to drop in big power. Borowski Race Engines (BRE) and Dart Machinery's history with BBC race engines goes back to about Day 1 of our common history in the late 60's. BRE now offers a range of 555 cubic inch short blocks using Dart Big M and Sportsman iron blocks to cover a wide range of applications using parts held in our inventory so we can deliver them to you promptly.
One part has been elusive for a long time - the Dart Big M aluminum block. We have not been willing to take any orders for these blocks because the supply was so uncertain. Dart now expects to be able to resume supply in Q1 2023 and our Purchase Order is in. If you want one of these blocks in any format (bare block, short block, long block, complete engine), you need to call now as they will sell out quickly. Our order is for blocks with standard deck height, standard cam location and bore diameter less than or equal to 4.560 inches. Want something different? Call us.
Why an Aluminum Big Block?
The strengths of the BBC are also its weaknesses. It is big which translates to strong and capable of large displacement. Unfortunately, that also means heavy and hard to cool. Comparing Dart Big M blocks, the iron one weighs in at 300 lbs while the aluminum version is 195 lbs. Taking 105 lbs out of the nose of a car dramatically affects how it handles, particularly ones that were nose-heavy to begin with. Aluminum is a much better conductor of heat and is therefore much easier to cool.
Why the Dart Big M Aluminum Block?
The design and performance of these blocks have built a great reputation at the track and on the street. As with all Big M's, these come with billet steel main caps and have dowel pins to keep them securely in place. The blocks themselves are cast in the USA with a high-grade aluminum alloy. Very importantly, the blocks undergo Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) treatment after casting to remove casting voids and perfect their crystalline structure. This greatly improves strength and reliablity. It is a change we can see while machining HIP treated parts.
Why Borowski Race Engines?
As stated previously, we are waiting for these blocks and can only now supply their iron block equivalents. If you can wait, you can also rest assured that we will have the rest of your parts on-hand when your block arrives because we keep a common architecture with the Dart iron short blocks - a 4.560" bore and 4.250" stroke which yields 555 cubic inches of displacement. The "Triple Nickel" configuration has a long and proven track record for both performance and longevity. Check out the video immediately below or keeping reading to learn more.
The importance of precision finish machining cannot be overstated. Our state-of-the-art CNC machinery ensures that your short block will be machined and balanced to the most exacting tolerances and assembled by our highly-trained and award-winning staff. Check out some of the machining videos at the end for more details on the machining.
Crank & Rods
Callies Performance's Compstar line of imported crank & rods are great for horsepower builds to about 1,200 hp. Callies' USA-made Magnum cranks and Ultra rods are the best choice for bigger power requirements.
Pistons
Diamond Pistons are BRE's preferred piston supplier. Sportsman short blocks are available in either 10cc or 40cc dome heights. The 10cc height is intended to handle boost and heavy nitrous shots. The 40cc is ideal for either naturally-aspirated or light nitrous builds.
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Whatever your needs, please call us at 815-725-2727. We’ll be pleased to help you select the best possible piece to meet your performance requirements and budget. And don’t forget about the short lead times.
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Block Machining Videos
Complete Shop Tour
Cylinder Honing
Block customizing
