What's the appeal of an aluminum engine block?

[66gtk]

I'm with you Brent. As a business man you are in charge and your reputation is all you have. Without it you don't have a business or customers. If somebody insists on doing something you feel will fail you have the right to refuse it. No reasonable amount of money or written disclaimers are enough to offset the power of an angry customer who trashes your name across the internet because he feels he was taken to the cleaners. It doesn't matter if you warned him or had him sign off that you can't back the decision - These people only hear what they want to hear and believe what they want to believe. They are toxic to your business. There will always be somebody "cheaper" and somebody who will gladly accept money who will agree to to the job. Let them have that customer if you can't convince the customer that what you are offering is "better".

A couple years ago I had a car with a Pond aluminum FE block. I've had several with cast iron blocks. I could care less about if I had an aluminum or Iron block. There are so many more important variables in an engine build that make the car more enjoyable to drive. I was able to command a higher price for the Al block car for some reason. I think it's all perceived value - no different than people paying more for a CSX replica than an equally equipped KMP. I had a potential customer who missed out buying my car with the Al block and he's regretted it since and now has me looking for another one for him to buy. I've offered him several without the Al block and he now is not interested in them. Reason? I haven't heard one. I think it's just bragging rights.