I was looking at my DSS shortblock today and noticed that the cylinders were notched like that of a 347. Is it common practice for an engine builder like DSS to notch all their blocks so they can build them without worry? or is my 331 a 347?
You can measure your stroke by hand since no pistons are installed. You should be able to tell the difference between a 3.25 and a 3.4" stroke with a good machinest scale ( rulers are kings). Why wonder, find out for sure.
Also any part# stamping on the crank would work as well.
I would magine that in DSS blocks they'd both be notched the same for clearance and you can use either a 347 crank or a 331. Too much clearance is better than not enough, right?
yeah... no such thing as too much clearance, till you hit a water jacket.
Notching the block in this application is actually cutting clearance notches in the bottom of the cylinders so that the rod from the stroker kit wont hit it as the engine is running.
yes you have to have the block notch to clear teh longer stroke. the rod will hit the bottom of teh cylinder wall if you dont. your machinest should be doing this if you told him you are planning to do a 347