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Aluminum vs Iron Block

gmyeah

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gmyeah Enthusiast

gmyeah

Posted
Posted

So, what's the big difference between an aluminum and iron block. Is it just weight, better fuel mileage? Is it built to last longer. Just curious....since I noticed that was yet another option.

jro909 Senior Enthusiast

jro909

Posted
Posted

iron blocks were built for heavier applications or harder work...as they can take a bigger beating but they weigh more

 

aluminu blocks now a days are right about on par with iron blocks and will be the norm soon enough

Quint Enthusiast

Quint

Posted
Posted

With today's alloys, the only difference between a stock aluminum engine block and a stock iron one is weight.

1990ss Enthusiast

1990ss

Posted
Posted

Aluminum blocks warm up a lot faster in the winter. That's one thing I like about it.

dewfpo Senior Enthusiast

dewfpo

Posted
Posted

Aluminum blocks warm up a lot faster in the winter. That's one thing I like about it.

 

 

By the same token, then shed heat faster as well.

 

DEWFPO

wtbrowne Enthusiast

wtbrowne

Posted
Posted

Weight is the enemy of economy, performance and handling. The aluminum block is lighter than cast iron and just as durable for most applications. You won't be seeing cast iron in many engine applications in the future. It is, in fact, nearly extinct now in most car engines.

fbachman Senior Enthusiast

fbachman

Posted
Posted

i believe AL blocks have sleeves in the cylinders that are non-Al. Doesn't mean it's better or worse---just is.

 

Over the years, most manufacturers have learned how to do AL blocks pretty darn well.

 

For trucks, my guess is the weight savings is king and the prime motivator for an AL block.

00Silverado4x4 Senior Enthusiast

00Silverado4x4

Posted
Posted

AL block burn oil iron do not. Thats what i have gathered from this forum

 

 

Not 100% true as I have a cast iron block & mine burns a little oil...although it's more age/mileage (90k+ miles) related vs design...

Ryan00TJ Enthusiast

Ryan00TJ

Posted
Posted

Weight is the enemy of economy, performance and handling. The aluminum block is lighter than cast iron and just as durable for most applications. You won't be seeing cast iron in many engine applications in the future. It is, in fact, nearly extinct now in most car engines.

 

 

I agree. My LY5 is an iron block that has no problems save for weight. Aluminum blocks do heat up faster vs iron. My 02 aluminum LS1 in my Camaro SS warmed up twice as fast as my Sierra does. Similar size radiators and coolant capacity.

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