Found a virginie 340 motor / now what to do with it?

[71chally416]

Ya might wanna compare the caps and bolts on a SBC to those on a SBM before you get anal about the relative strength. I'd say the stock caps on a 340 with ARP studs are way stronger than a 4 bolt main 350 chevy with the stock bolts. The cylinder walls are the weak link, not the caps.     

 

[Aussie Challenger]

Some poster from CNC blocks on Speedtalk was posting pictures today on a cast crank motor running 7,200. Was saying how the cast crank flexes and eats the bearings. Was also saying that Chevy 2 bolt main caps start dancing-walking-with stroke cranks in SBC--that is only 3.75 inches. 

Motor should last a long time using the short stroke. 

Even 4 bolt chevy builders go green when they see a 2 bolt SB MOPAR, factory 4 bolt are stronger again.   

[dodge freak 2]

Going to the shop tomorrow--its about 70 miles away one way, lol

Got my cylinder heads, cam-lifters marked, chain, etc.

Almost certain I be staying with the short stroke 3.31. The motor will last longer and be harder to break (threw a rod in 2001 and spun a bearing in 2010).

If funds permit I like to stick a 10 inch converter in the trans while the motor is out. With my 3.91 gears it should not slip on the freeways going 70 mph+.

I get a good idea tomorrow what the damage will be..Manici Racing sells a Speed Pro rebuild kit with forged pistond for $690. Might be the way to go. Those pistons have 5 /64 rings--most hp pistons use 1/16 rings now and shop says they work great but do not last 100,000 miles like. Last thing I need is a smokey engine--cops are alright here but that crosses the line. Sure way to get hassled by them.