Description:

We use Dart LS Next blocks once we get past about a 750 horsepower target on our aluminum LS builds. Our typical starting point for a Dart aluminum block is PN 31947211 which is skirted and has a 9.240 deck and 4.125 inch bore.  We can also use its non-skirted predecessor but frankly, we have not done so in years. 

The first upgrade to look for in a boosted application is machining for 1/2 inch head studs. This provides a lot more clamping pressure to the heads than standard 7/16 inch studs. This is important, as lifting of the heads is a common cause of catastrophic failure for engines under boost. Want to see one of these upgraded blocks perform on a chassis dyno? Watch the video.

Already have six bolt heads machined for 7/16 studs? Send us the heads and we will ream them for you at no charge. You just pay the shipping. While we have your heads, we can offer a range of additional services such as CNC porting and CNC valve jobs.

Two other common block upgrades we can offer are:
- Piston oiler installation - great for road racing and other endurance applications 
- Machine for Jesel belt drives 

We are able to perform the above mentioned machining operations on any Dart block that we have in stock. Beyond these upgrades, there are a wide range of LS Next aluminum block options from Dart such raised cam, tall deck, and the LS Next2 versions with 0.5 inch main studs and either 2.560 or 2.750 inch Ford Cleveland style mains. We can supply blocks with any combination of these options, and either as-produced by Dart, or fully machined and assembly-ready (see Description below).

If you’d like, we can take your project further. From short block to long block to fully dressed crate engine with whatever type of power adder you want - and whatever horsepower you want. We carry inventory of the high-end parts we need for these big-power builds and can supply them to you as parts, completed engines or assemblies.