Need to know ASAP if i should have block O-ringed or not.....

[Nasty Notch]

Who on here is running an O-ring in their block? Do most guys running big power with nitrous and such and racing run them? My engine builder called me yesterday and wasn't sure if i wanted the my R302 block O-ringed or not. I told him no, but then he was like are you sure? Should i have the it done. I do plan on putting out some huge numbers and running in the 18-20 lbs. of boost range. I have always been under the impression that o-ringing was a bad idea as you would rather have a head gasket let loose than a piston. Heads are still at TEA as well, should they be cut as well?? Need to know ASAP. The car is goin to be street/strip as well, with a ton of track time.

[kobra94]

ABSOLUTELY!!!!!!!!!!!! do the block and you don't need to do the heads. every little bit of sealing power helps. ken

[WA2FAST]

If this is a street car, do NOT do it. I have never heard of anyone advising o-ringing the block on a street car. Exactly what you said is why... let the head gasket be the fuse.

[kobra94]

i like to o-ring the block, and use "cheap" stock ford head gaskets as a "fuse". if you ever need to sell the heads, some people won't buy o- ringed heads. i have a question for you...... what difference does it make wether it is a street car or race car? my car is basically built to run Renegade or drag radial, and i daily drive it. ken

[WA2FAST]

That is simply what I have heard. I agree, if you are going to ring anything, do the block because you will more than likely have a hard time selling ringed heads. As far as what's the difference?... Street cars, especially that are driven every day see a lot of different temps, running conditions, and so on as well as being more prone to problems just for the simple fact that they are driven more often.