The reason I'm avoiding the production blocks is that when I want to add some boost, I would rather already have a lower end capable of handling it rather than having to buy a whole new stronger bottom end. I wont be going over 1000hp but I don't want to get stuck with a block that can only handle 600 at the crank, you know? That's why the SVO sounded like a good idea if it could hold 1200rwhp, BUT I CAN'T FIND ANY

Thanks for clearing up the power ratings, FullAuto.

Now if an SVO A351 really can hold 1200rwhp then it's perfect, but I don't know where I can find one. Anybody?

 

I don't think you're going to find a block for the mid-range you're looking for. If you're looking at a 1000-1200hp block, there are several advantages to the Dart block. It's a lot cheaper to spend the money the first time, than to save a little and do it twice. That being said, I would have no fear at all running a stock production block to ~650rwhp with a hyd. roller and limiting your rpm to 6500 or so. A production block will get you into the 9s without any issues. If you want to make 700rwhp and run low 9s, you're playing with the big kids and you're going to have to spend the money.

My coupe went 9.83 @ 137mph with an F4TE block (considered the weakest of the production blocks). At my weight that would have been 590-600rwhp.

 

I have ran 10 o's for years, I have always ran siamese sportsman blocks, but every friend I have has been in the high 9's and 10 flat's with what FullAuto just described. There is a breaking point where you do have to decide what side of the fence you want to be on.
There is basically no such thing as "mild" once you get into the nines.

 

Well I guess that makes me think things over again =/ Thanks for the help, guys!