1968 427 Side Oiler Block

[RodKnock]

First, I know very little about FE's, so I have another one of those "value" questions. I've been beating the bushes for used FE parts to begin a build and I've located a 1968 427 Side Oiler (C8AE-A Date Code 7H3) locally for the princely sum of $2,000. However, it's been bored .030 over already and I have no idea at this point if it will stay at .030. I've read that the pre-hydraulic lifter side oilers are worth more than the '68 blocks. I've also read that 427's cannot be bored greater than .030 over. I could use some advice/opinions on the potential purchase of this block. Thank you for your help.

[427 S/O]

Folks can say what they want but, I like and use the 68 block, I like the option of either solids or hyd.. never any problems and I push her hard. .030 over!, I would bargain like crazy because after sonic test, you might need to sleeve all holes. $800+. IMO...

[Excaliber]

Date coded side oiler blocks, 65/66 are certainly more desirable IF your building an accurate replica, or restoring an original. In THAT case they could command more money than a 68 block.

However, I prefer the later model hydraulic block because it gives you more flexibility in choosing a flat tappet or hyd camshaft. While I could have run a hyd cam in my 68 block, I went with a flat tappet anyway.

$2000 is not a bad price but I would be worried about the .030 overbore. Thats gotta be maxed out all ready and possibly has all ready resulted in super thin cylinder walls. It should be sonic checked to determine if it needs to be sleeved.

While a good price, it's a bit risky in that regard.

I gotta admit, my buddy has a date coded 65 side oiler block in his older Hi Tech and it gives me chills just knowing it's in there! That IS the
'holiest of grail' when it comes to side oilers. I'm probably the only guy in town that is duely impressed however.