Need advice, I have two short blocks ready to go in my garage, can't decide which one to use. One is a stock(re-ringed) L31 engine with 13cc dish pistons and standard .025 deck clearance. The other is a 355 with 2 relief flat hypereutectics with 5cc releifs and standard .025 deck clearance. I have the LT4 hot cam, vortec heads, 1.6rrs, 1 3/4 slp headers and will probably use my edelbrock intake and demon carb 'til I can afford a stealth ram. Now my question is which route would you take---- with the L31 block and .015 shim gaskets I'll have 9.395 static comp. 8.138 dynamic and .040 quench----- with the 355 and .015 gskt 10.395 SC 8.987 DC & .040 quench ----- 355 and .028 gskt 10.063 SC 8.706 DC & .053 quench ---- 355 and .039 gskt 9.802 SC 8.484 DC & .064 quench. Decking one of the blocks or changing pistons isn't really an option right now, trying to use what I have now. sorry so long

 

By far the flat-top 355

 

OK i hear ya there, but which head gasket do you think I should use? Will I be asking for detonation with the quench at .053?

 

Run the thin gasket for 10.4:1, you'll be fine on pump gas with that.

 

thanks guys, i'll try it and keep my fingers crossed