About this episode
Say goodbye to the old saying "cast ain't fast" with Dart's 2JZ cast iron engine block. When it comes to the many limitations factory cast blocks have when we try and take them from 200-300hp to 2000-3000hp or more, the go-to option in the aftermarket is generally a billet alloy block that offers more strength and improved design (sometimes application specific), but at a substantial cost given the nature of manufacturing. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in On display at SEMA, @DartMachinery has come to the rescue with their newly developed cast iron engine block which gives us a middle option where we can gain many of the advantages we get with billet offerings, namely design improvements that address known weak points, for a lower cost,. This allows us to safely produce more power and also gives us a reliable source for replacements if the worst does happen as secondhand factory 2JZ blocks become more scarce with time too. As Mike from @racewinningbrandsautomotiv766 explains with this aftermarket cast block you can expect added thickness to the bores and deck surface, reduced core shift, and a billet 4-bolt cap (centres are 12mm, outers 10mm) for improved strength as well as screw-in freeze plugs helping prevent a blow out which OEM press-fit versions sometimes do after a head lift. Additionally, the block can be clearanced on order to take alloy rods, making it perfect for those running stroker combinations and it retains the ability to run your factory accessories when it comes to oil and water pumps etc. While at the moment we can still source factory-cast 2JZ blocks from Toyota, Dart's more accurate casting process ensures consistent rather than unpredictable wall thicknesses and they don't force you to purchase accompanying factory components that you will never use in your performance build. Yes, this is the angle you can take with the wife when you tell her how much you are SAVING when you buy this block. It's foolproof, honest. We're hoping to see these on the market in late 2023 for around $4,500 USD, but note no price has been confirmed yet.