Since the earliest days of hot rodding, the number one question for home builders has always been, “What combination of parts should I use to get the best performance for my setup?”

Today’s aftermarket provides a nearly endless supply of options to choose from and while that is always a good thing, it can also create a lot of confusion. Since the foundation for any engine build is of course a solid short block, ATK has released a pair of assembled short blocks that will get you well on your way to achieving your performance goals.

There are so many applications where a 355 short block is a perfect choice.

These assemblies already have the correct parts needed for any home build, and ATK’s expert technicians have put together some proven combinations to help you finish the build. For those that want the satisfaction of building their own engine but don’t want to spend months trying to figure out what parts to use, ATK’s tested recipes can remove all of your doubts. Of course, if you do have some ideas in mind ATK’s techs will be more than happy to help you sort those out too.

The block’s main journals are bored and aligned-honed to assure that your crank runs perfectly true, and the crank, rods and pistons are balanced for butter-smooth revs. Camshaft bearings are also installed, as are brass freeze and oil galley plugs. Your short block will arrive ready for your choice of cam, heads, ignition and induction parts – either your own selections or one of ATK’s proven combos. Of course, they can also supply the timing chain and gears, tin work, the various gaskets and virtually everything else you’ll need to get you up and running.

ATK’s 408-inch LS short blocks will provide you with the ideal base for that turbo or nitrous engine you’ve been fantasizing about.

The first short block assembly is a classic small-block Chevy 355. It starts with a seasoned OEM four-bolt roller-cam block that has a one-piece rear main seal. The .040-inch over bores are honed for a set of moly-ringed hypereutectic pistons with 12.3 cc dishes. They are connected to a cast crankshaft by powdered-metal connecting rods. This one is an ideal starting point for a mild street build or even for someone needing a strong truck replacement.

The second assembly is a 408 cubic-inch GM iron LS block bored .030-inch over with a Manley 4340-forged crankshaft held in place with ARP main studs. The 4.00-inch stroke throws Manley 4340 H-beam rods using ARP 2000 rod bolts that are connected to 10 cc dished forged pistons. The reluctor wheel is 58-tooth. The Total Seal ring package even has the top rings gapped for adding 10-plus pounds of boost. This one is great for those wanting a base short-block for a reasonable turbo or nitrous build.

An ATK short block assembly is the perfect solution for any home engine build. You get “I built it myself” bragging rights along with the peace of mind that your engine combination will not only exceed your expectations but that it will also give you many, many miles of trouble-free cruising. Go ahead, contact them today and let the knowledgeable folks there help you build that engine you’ve been dreaming about.