
The SBF Dart block is a high-performance engine block designed for Small-Block Ford (SBF) engines, widely regarded for its durability, versatility, and exceptional power potential. Dart Machinery, a leading manufacturer in the performance engine parts industry, has designed this block to meet the needs of enthusiasts, racers, and builders looking for a reliable foundation to build high-output Ford engines. Whether you are building a street performance engine or a racing powerhouse, the SBF Dart block provides the strength and precision required to maximize engine performance. In this article, we will explore the design features, benefits, and considerations of using an SBF Dart block in your Ford engine project.
Design Features of the SBF Dart Block
The SBF Dart block is engineered with both strength and performance in mind. Dart Machinery’s commitment to quality and innovation has resulted in a block that can withstand the intense demands of high horsepower and racing conditions. Some of the key design features of the SBF Dart block include:
1. Material and Construction
One of the standout features of the SBF Dart block is the materials used in its construction. Dart utilizes high-quality, durable materials such as premium cast iron and aluminum for different block versions. The iron version is particularly popular due to its strength and ability to handle high levels of torque, making it ideal for racing and performance applications. The aluminum versions, on the other hand, offer weight savings without sacrificing strength, providing an excellent balance for street performance builds.
Strength and Durability: The use of high-quality materials ensures that the SBF Dart block can handle extreme power levels while maintaining structural integrity. Whether you’re building an engine for drag racing or high-performance street applications, the block can take the heat and stress of high RPMs, making it a top choice for serious enthusiasts.
2. Increased Bore and Stroke Capacity
The SBF Dart block is designed to accommodate a larger bore and stroke than standard factory Ford blocks. This is essential for building big power engines, as it allows for increased displacement and more aggressive engine builds. The larger bore provides more room for oversized pistons, which, in turn, increases the engine’s ability to take in more air and fuel, resulting in higher power outputs.
Customization Options: The increased bore and stroke capacity of the SBF Dart block means that builders have more flexibility when designing their engines. Whether you’re aiming for a higher-revving engine or a torque monster, the block’s enhanced capacity makes it easier to achieve the desired results.
3. Strengthened Main Caps and Bulkhead
The SBF Dart block comes equipped with reinforced main caps and a strengthened bulkhead. These features are crucial for ensuring that the block can handle the immense stress and forces generated by high-performance engines. The main caps provide support to the crankshaft, while the bulkhead reinforces the lower part of the engine, keeping it from flexing or distorting under pressure.
Reliable Power Handling: The reinforced main caps and bulkhead give the SBF Dart block the strength needed to support high horsepower levels. This makes the block ideal for builders who plan to push their engines to the limits, whether on the racetrack or the street.
4. Splayed Mains and Billet Steel Caps
The SBF Dart block features splayed main caps, which improve the overall strength and rigidity of the engine block. Splayed mains are configured at a wider angle than traditional main caps, distributing the stress more evenly and preventing the block from twisting or flexing under load. Dart also offers billet steel main caps, which provide additional strength and are capable of handling even higher horsepower applications.
Enhanced Performance: The splayed main caps and billet steel option contribute to a more rigid block, reducing flex and improving engine stability. This results in more consistent power delivery and higher RPM capabilities, making it ideal for performance builds.
Advantages of Using the SBF Dart Block
Building an engine around an SBF Dart block comes with numerous benefits, particularly for those seeking maximum performance and reliability. Some of the key advantages include:
1. Improved Strength for High-Performance Applications
One of the primary reasons builders choose the SBF Dart block is its strength. The block is designed to withstand high horsepower and torque levels, which are often encountered in racing and performance applications. Whether you’re planning a naturally aspirated engine or a forced induction setup with a turbocharger or supercharger, the SBF Dart block provides the structural integrity to support these extreme performance modifications.
Ideal for Racing and Street Performance: The SBF Dart block is engineered to endure the heavy demands of competitive racing, including drag racing, road racing, and autocross. It can also handle the rigors of street performance builds, offering a high level of reliability and longevity under aggressive driving conditions.
2. Enhanced Customization and Modularity
The SBF Dart block is highly customizable, with a range of options that cater to different engine configurations. Whether you want a 302-based engine or a larger 347, 383, or 427 engine, Dart offers various options to match your needs. Additionally, the block can be fitted with a variety of aftermarket components, such as camshaft configurations, cylinder heads, and intake manifolds, allowing builders to create a completely custom engine that suits their performance goals.
Versatility in Design: The modular nature of the SBF Dart block ensures that it can be used for a wide variety of engine builds. Whether you’re working on a project for a vintage muscle car or building a race car from scratch, the block’s versatility allows you to design an engine that fits your specific application.
3. Improved Cooling Efficiency
The SBF Dart block features enhanced cooling passages that improve the engine’s cooling efficiency. In high-performance engines, maintaining proper temperatures is critical to preventing overheating and ensuring optimal performance. Dart’s design improvements in this area help keep the engine cooler under load, reducing the risk of engine damage and promoting longevity.
Better Heat Management: The improved cooling system is especially beneficial for high-horsepower applications, where engine temperatures can climb rapidly. This feature ensures that your engine operates at its best, even under extreme conditions.
In conclusion, the SBF Dart block is an outstanding choice for any builder looking to create a high-performance Small-Block Ford engine. With its advanced design features, superior strength, and excellent customization options, this block provides a solid foundation for building powerful and reliable engines. Whether you are building a street machine, a drag racing engine, or a high-performance road car, the SBF Dart block offers the durability and precision required to meet your needs. Dart’s commitment to quality and innovation makes the SBF Dart block a top contender for performance enthusiasts seeking to push the limits of their engine builds.