block casting numbers

[patrick m.]

i just had a friend give me the old long block out of his van, the number is "506".
Evidently the eng was replaced due to a cracked head. (i was told he got it done under warranty, i dont know how he talked 'em into a complete eng)
My question is, are blocks different from van to truck (center mount turbo/side mount turbo)?
and would this block make a good candidate for a build-up? of course it would have to pass a machine shop inspection


also, the lower end appears to be in good shape, this weekend i will measure a few things to determine wear.

[ 10-03-2003, 09:54 PM: Message edited by: Patrick m. ]

[Jim P]

I guy told me that the van blocks are different because they have a special oil hole in the v of the engine for a return for the turbo oil. But maybe you could just plug the hole and still use it. I'm sure somebody here will know alot more about it than me.

[whatnot]

What year was it out of? I thought that the 506 blocks are the oil spray piston ones that suposedly crack the worst.

[patrick m.]

i think it is out of a '99 model, but not sure. ill ask him next week.
whatnot, i hope the "506"s arent the ones that like to crack, if so, my free eng may have to be used as a core :rolleyes:

[richard7]

The "506" block ('99-up) is a stronger block than the previous one. It has smaller oil jet holes and is beefier in some areas.

It can develop cracks like the others do, but it is a good block. For high horspower applications, engine builders tend to prefer pre-oil jet blocks.

Go to 506 block (http://home.cinci.rr.com/mainous/EnhancedBlkID.htm) for more info about the 506 block.

[Brandon]

It is possible to weld the holes where the turbo goes. Other than that it will work. I ran one from a '99 Hummer for a 100,000 before it finally died. It cracked no. 7,5,3, and scored no1,4,6. I don't think that the oil spray is what they say it should be. It ran hoter than the original motor.