540ci??

[cc555]

can you make a 540ci out of a merlin 502 block? if so whats the difference doing it this way (CHEAP) versus old way with a 454 block..?
thanks..!

[fc-pilot]

can you make a 540ci out of a merlin 502 block? if so whats the difference doing it this way (CHEAP) versus old way with a 454 block..?
thanks..!
I have to say, I am not sure what you mean by "the old way", but yes you can build a 540 out of a 502 block. A 502 is a four inch stroke with a 4.466 bore. Today’s typical 540's are a 4 1/4 stroke with a 4.5 bore. So all you need is a crank with that stroke, new pistons, and the block machined and clearance (if it needs it) to clear the rods and there you go. I would recommend going with a longer rod to keep down on cylinder wear (but that is just my opinion), you can use the same rods if you are trying to keep cost down.
Did I forget anything?
Paul