Looking to snag a Mexican block...opinions?

[88blowngt]

What do you guys think of using a mexican block? I read about alot of success over on the turbo 5.0 forums and can see the beefier difference in them when comparing both mexican and stock blocks. Seems like a cheaper middle man to the pricier R302/A4/Dart options for a little extra insurance.

Any input/advice/opinions?

 

[90mustangGT]

What do you guys think of using a mexican block? I read about alot of success over on the turbo 5.0 forums and can see the beefier difference in them when comparing both mexican and stock blocks. Seems like a cheaper middle man to the pricier R302/A4/Dart options for a little extra insurance.

Any input/advice/opinions?

You can do a search and come up with a lot of info. This is what I have heard about the Mexican block from some people who know their blocks. They say if you can find one for a reasonable price then it is an upgrade for a roller block, but nothing compared to a R302/A4/Dart/World block. They are closer to the pre-1975 blocks, but not quite. The issue with them, as regular 302 and 351 blocks is they tend to crack right up the middle due to the physics of any V style engine to tear itself apart between the cylinder banks. I've seen many 302 engine's fail due to being pushed past their limits. Usually a rod lets go or some hardware snapps and the chain reaction ensues, but ever time I've ever seen a block fail, it cracked right up the middle. Having the main area stronger will keep the harmonics from effecting the rest of the block as much, but won't save you in the long run. The aftermarket and race blocks key reason is the quality of the iron and the alloy mix (having extra nickel) as well as much, much beefier webbing up top.

So yeah, if you can find a mexican block, by all means do it, but if you are pushing over 400hp, might want to take the money and invest in something better, under 400hp you really don't have to worry about it.