331 0r 347

[Barry_R]

I don't like perforated oil ring lands.
And I am an engine builder these days... :O

They are an added variable in the ring stack in terms of an extra piece, with it's dimensional variance and quirky installation tolerance/deformation stack up (due to a clamp load around the groove ID) in an area where other dimensions are measured in tenths. They are a necessary evil in certain builds - but I consider them as something to avoid if other options are possible.

In terms of performance the cubic inches will pretty much always win any street contest.
In terms of oil consumption a couple items are noteworthy. First is that everybody has a different tolerance for oil usage. One guy won't ever notice if he uses a quart every few thousand miles 'cuz he changes it every month during the summer. The next guy will get upset if he sees the stick down a half quart between annual changes. Just because you don't see blue smoke does not mean that you're not using oil...

I tend to think that teh 5.4 rod deal is a fashion statement with no benefit. A shorter rod would keep the oil ring clear and have no downside. Mark has made pistons and shorter rods with the market result being that darn near nobody cared. They all read magazines that extoll the virtues of a longer rod with no quantifiable benefit.

[Mac VABCH]

Mark,

No I am not but really tried to educate myself before buying my 2nd stroker. I had the first (347) torn down after a valve spring retainer broke and piston to valve contact. I took it to a local reputable builder, he actually built my 347 10 yrs earlier. He showed me how he set up the ring support to control oil. Mac

[flatred46]

Thanks for all the great info, My next question , Can you really tell the diff erance between the two motors, and What type of heads would you use on a 331? I am looking for a good street motor.

You guys have been very helpful, and thanks for the great responses

Phil

[flatred46]

Keith, do you guys do just the short block?

Thanks

Phil

[Mark O'Neal]

Originally Posted by flatred46

Keith, do you guys do just the short block?

Thanks

Phil

In case Keith doesn't check in...not just short blocks. Keith can do complete engines to suit any application from pure street to Pro Stock. He's known for both his quality and his honesty.....and can do a nice dyno'd crate motor that you're certain to be happy with.

[YerDugliness]

Originally Posted by Mark O'Neal

In case Keith doesn't check in...not just short blocks. Keith can do complete engines to suit any application from pure street to Pro Stock. He's known for both his quality and his honesty.....and can do a nice dyno'd crate motor that you're certain to be happy with.

I called KC regarding building me an 8.2" Clevor, they weren't too keen on the idea. I'd be interested in a short block, though........his work is legendary!

Dugly

[Mark O'Neal]

Originally Posted by flatred46

Thanks for all the great info, My next question , Can you really tell the diff erance between the two motors, and What type of heads would you use on a 331? I am looking for a good street motor.

You guys have been very helpful, and thanks for the great responses

Phil

There's a minor difference in H/P and a noticeable increase in torque (all else being equal).

[Mark O'Neal]

Originally Posted by Barry_R

I don't like perforated oil ring lands.
And I am an engine builder these days... :O

It shocked all of us.....your hands used to be so soft and uncalloused.....