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View Full Version : Hecho en Mexico 350 block, any good?



475_enduro
12-17-2012, 03:21 PM
I have a Hecho en Mexico 4 bolt 350 block that ws a gm replacement motor, that had "TargetMaster" on the valve covers. I have heard that the mexico castings were better because they had thicker walls or something, also heard that they had more nckel, ive tied to do a little research on the internet but cant find any good reliable information. I was wondering if anyone had ever used one of these blocks in a high hp motor and how well they held up. Also saw one of these blocks on Racingjunk for $350 dont know if this guy is out of his mind or if there is a reason he thinks he can get that much. Anyone have any info or thoughts or actual experience running these mexican blocks??? Thanks

istock11m
12-17-2012, 08:42 PM
I ran one 2 years ago, not saying it was bad, but it was the first time i have had a block crack in a wreck. Got in a pile up and the motor mount pad broke out of the side of the block. didn't even bend the motor mount! Will not run another one. I do know the mexican heads are weak.

Krooser
12-18-2012, 05:39 PM
all of gm's crate motors are built in Mexico....

475_enduro
12-19-2012, 11:39 PM
Yeah, but what im wondering is if the made in mexico blocks are any good, i think the one i have is an early 80's block. I did read somewhere where someone said that they thought they were crack prone.

racer69
12-20-2012, 05:44 PM
I have had a few and never had a cracked one. LOL All I know about em!

ka_jd7and1
12-20-2012, 09:24 PM
My machine shop said it is fine to use as long as compression ratio stays down. Above 10.5:1, no go.