Originally Posted by
gsimpson
OK I bought a used military engine # 4022660 I have been told this is a red block engine I know its a 6.2.
If so what is a red block engine are they special?
Legend has it that the 1982 (first year production of the 6.2L) blocks had a higher nickel content than following years. This was the only year the blocks were painted red. No one has been able to verify this information, however. It does appear that 1982 6.2L blocks have a lower failure rate, but it could also be that it was related to being the lowest power output version as well.
I don't know if military blocks were painted red for 1982, it may have been only the civilian models. I really have no idea.
There should be a date stamped on the back of the block if it is, in fact, an early block. I know my spare 1982 and 1983 blocks have the actual date stamped into them, instead of just date codes. My 1982 block I used in my old 6.2L project was actually manufactured in 1981.
As far as boring out a 6.2L block to 6.5L dimensions, it is also reported that 6.5L blocks have thicker cylinder walls for the larger bore. However, I know of at least one early 6.2L block that was successfully bored to use stock 6.5L pistons. Again, it is not recommended. I have not been able to verify that the 6.5L blocks have thicker cylinder walls, though. It could be that a 6.5L is just a bored out 6.2L. The "599" 6.2L blocks used in 1992 and 1993 were bored to both 6.2L and 6.5L dimensions during the transition years from one to the next.
Casey
1995 K1500 Tahoe 2 door, 6.5LTD, 4L80E, NP241, 3.42's, 285/75R16 BFG K02's; 1997 506 block; Kennedy OPS harness, gauges, Quick Heat plugs, and TD-Max chip; Dtech FSD on FSD Cooler; vacuum pump deleted, HX35 turbo, Turbo Master, 3.5" Kennedy exhaust, F code intake; dual t/stats, HO water pump, Champion radiator; Racor fuel filter