7.3 Blocks. Anyone heard of this???

[04stroker]

I had someone tell me that a 2003 block should always be used in a high horsepower 7.3 build because because "it has more thickness and was made with more supports inside around the cylinder for strength" than the 94.5-97 blocks.

I have never heard of this honestly and just wasn't sure as I am not a huge 7.3 guy and don't keep up with them a lot. Anyone know one way or the other for sure?

 

[ToMang07]

I had someone tell me that a 2003 block should always be used in a high horsepower 7.3 build because because "it has more thickness and was made with more supports inside around the cylinder for strength" than the 94.5-97 blocks.

I have never heard of this honestly and just wasn't sure as I am not a huge 7.3 guy and don't keep up with them a lot. Anyone know one way or the other for sure?

I think it was just a little more meat on the 99-on blocks versus the OBS blocks.

 

[JD3020]

I'll try to dig out my "Powerstroke Bible", has pics showing the difference from the early 7.3's, to the later with the stronger blocks. Pretty sure the changeover was 96/97

 

[04stroker]

I have never looked really at it where is the extra material at?

 

[superpsd]

For starters the early block does not have the Webs across the lifter valley. Think it was like in late 96 when they made the changes?

 

[ToMang07]

I have never looked really at it where is the extra material at?

IIRC the valley and the side walls around the valley. I think it was done more to reduce noise. Not 100% on that tho.

 

[04stroker]

I know there are differences just was not sure of specifics especially regarding to "supports around the cylinder".

 

[Powerstroker7.3]

I'm pretty sure it is just the webbing thing that was changed but the blocks should all be good from 97 and up. I used a 97 block when I built my motor


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[strokin'_tatsch]

I remember reading in a book I got from a Ford mechanic that the valley was slightly thicker and the webbing in the lifter area, but don't remember anything about the cylinders. I also remember the cranks and pistons being different too.

 

[cbf9703]

IIRC the Swamps OBS was built with the original 97 block from the truck... if so, stout enough for me.