1972 and up 440 differences?

[AMXguy]

When looking at pistons I see that in '72 everything changed,  If I use my 906 heads am I looking at the same engine as a pre 1972 or are there other differences besides that?

[nivvy]

forgerd vs cast crank / balancing differences.... i think some 72's were forged

[Moparal]

also about 2  2.5 point difference in a compression drop

[AMXguy]

If the crank and deck hight are the same how can that be? or are they? I'm thinking if I use the 906 heads I'd build it with the  same parts as My '70 440 because I like everything about it, this engine is a steel crank 1972 440.  I'll find a 70 or older 440 if I'm going to have a mix and match deal going on.

[NoMope Greg]

Assuming that you are rebuilding a bare block, there are no differences.  If you're using a stock '72 short block, there may be a drop in compression (depending on what your '70 had in it), but most things will change over with no problem.  If you want to move your heads onto the '72, your 906's will bolt right on. 

More info on 440 blocks here: http://www.440source.com/blockinfo.htm

[Chryco Psycho]

with the same deck height & heads the piston height is what cahnged to drop compression so as long as the pistons are being replaced it makes no difference whick block you use , watch for the Truck blocks , some have a 5 cast in the front face & are .050 taller deck height , this could be a good thing with a stroker PKG though