Ok, so I've been searching and reading for the past twenty minutes and have gotten mixed information on what level a 5bolt or 3bolt main girdle is needed. I'm running an 83mm benson sleeved ls/vtec, but I just received the block back from the machine shop, and have been worrying lately about whether or not I should run a block girdle. I want to run around 400 on pump, and 600+ on race gas, and possibly ring it to ~9k - 9.5 . Is it extremely necessary to do this? I've been reading different opinions by big name builders.
Thanks in advance.

 

the 5 bolt will add more strength (duh ) the question is whether or not u wanna fork up the extra $ for more bottom end stregth. i wouldnt think a 5 bolt would be "extremely necessary" but at least a 3 bolt would be in ur best interest.

 

i was just researching this and my numbers are around the same as yours that i want this year i would also like to know lol

 

If you change or add a block girdle you will need to do a line hone/bore on the mains. You may want to avoid it just for that reason.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by integranator &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Ok, so I've been searching and reading for the past twenty minutes and have gotten mixed information on what level a 5bolt or 3bolt main girdle is needed. I'm running an 83mm benson sleeved ls/vtec, but I just received the block back from the machine shop, and have been worrying lately about whether or not I should run a block girdle. I want to run around 400 on pump, and 600+ on race gas, and possibly ring it to ~9k - 9.5 . Is it extremely necessary to do this? I've been reading different opinions by big name builders.
Thanks in advance.</TD></TR></TABLE>

why do you need to rev up to 9K even with vtec an ls motor just doesnt need to be that stressed out are you adding oil squirters like honda did to the B18C ? but to answer your question im a supporter of block gridles all my cars an trucks have one

 

You want your answer... Well, there is no answer. Some people (such as myself) run them for "added insurance". Others run all day long without the girdle and have no problems. I don't believe this topic has a definitive answer.