Dirt Late Model Engines - Engine Builder Magazine |

Popular Posts Schaeffler Expands Line of Aftermarket Products Units for Agricultural Equipment Blown 540 cid Hemi Engine Weiand Supercharged 454 Big Block Chevy Engine Compound Turbo 6.0L Powerstroke 1,900-Plus HP LLY Duramax Engine Connect with us advertise with us

Schaeffler Expands Line of Aftermarket Products Units for Agricultural Equipment

Weiand Supercharged 454 Big Block Chevy Engine

1,900-Plus HP LLY Duramax Engine

Schaeffler Expands Line of Aftermarket Products Units for Agricultural Equipment

Weiand Supercharged 454 Big Block Chevy Engine

1,900-Plus HP LLY Duramax Engine

Add Your Listing Edit Your Listing By Category Engine Components A/N Fittings/AdaptorsAir Induction SystemsBatteriesBearings (camshaft)Bearings (engine sleeve type)Bearings (main rear main)Bearings (Rod)Belt Tensioner/IdlersBrass FittingsBushingsCam CapsCamshaft Belt DrivesCamshaft KitsCamshaft SealsCamshaft Thrust Plate and PartsCamshaftsCarburetorsChain KitsClampsComplete EnginesConnecting RodsConnecting Rods Nuts BoltsCrankshaft ConversionsCrankshaft KitsCrankshaft Oil SlingersCrankshaft Pulley SleevesCrankshaft Repair SleevesCrankshaft SealsCrankshaftsCylinder Head ComponentsCylinder Heads New: Aluminum BareCylinder Heads New: Aluminum CompleteCylinder Heads New: Cast Iron BareCylinder Heads New: Cast Iron CompleteCylinder Heads Reman: Aluminum BareCylinder Heads Reman: Aluminum CompleteCylinder Heads Reman: Cast Iron BareCylinder Heads Reman: Cast Iron CompleteCylinder Liners (sleeves)Diesel InjectorsDipstick Adapters (Chevy Ford)Dowel PinsEFI ComponentsEngine BlocksEngine Blocks - RemanufacturedEngine KitsEngine Management Systems/ECUsEngine MountsExhaust ComponentsExhaust Components: Complete SystemsExhaust Components: Custom ExhaustsExhaust Components: Leak DetectionExhaust Components: ManifoldsExhaust Components: Tube NotchingExhaust Components: Tube SwagingExhaust Components: Tube/Frame Bending MachinesFilters - AirFilters - FuelFilters - OilFlywheel (ring) GearsFlywheel AssembliesFuel Injection - ElectronicFuel Injection - MechanicalFuel PumpsFuel System ComponentsGasket CementGasketsGear DrivesGovernorsHarmonic Balancer Repair SleevesHarmonic Balancers/DampersHead Bolts/StudsHex ShaftsHydraulic Lash AdjustersIgnition ComponentsInjector TubesInjectors - DieselInjectors - Gasoline DirectInjectors - IndirectIntake ManifoldsIPR ValvesKeysLockwashersMain Caps (4-bolt)Manifold StudsNitrous Oxide Systems, ComponentsNitrous Valves and PlatesNuts and BoltsOil CoolersOil Filter AdaptersOil PansOil Pressure SpringsOil Pump KitsOil Pump ScreensOil Pump ShaftsOil Pump Timing CoversOil PumpsOiling Systems; Dry SumpOverhead Camshaft Repair SleevesPiston Pin BushingsPiston Pin Lock RingsPiston PinsPiston RingsPistonsPlugs - ExpansionPlugs - MagneticPlugs - Oil DrainPlugs - StandardPush RodsRadiator/Oil FansRering KitsRestoration Engine PartsRocker Arm Rebuilding ComponentsRocker Assemblies and KitsRocker Stud GirdlesSealsSerpentine BeltsShimsShort BlocksSpark PlugsSpringsSuperchargers, componentsSwitchesTappetsThread RepairThrust WashersTiming Belt/Chain TensionerTiming Belts/ChainsTiming Chains, Gears, SprocketsTiming ComponentsTiming CoversTransmission AdaptorsTurbochargers, componentsValve CoversValve Guide LinersValve GuidesValve KeysValve Lifter BallsValve LiftersValve Locks and SealsValve Seat InsertsValve Spring InsertsValve Spring RetainersValve SpringsValve Stem Oil SealsValve Train PartsValvesWater PumpsWater Tubes Engine Equipment & Preparation Adhesive DispensingAir Flow BenchesAir Handling SystemsBalance Shaft Elimination KitBalance Shaft Line Boring EquipmentBalancing AccessoriesBalancing EquipmentBelt SanderBench GrinderBlock Pressure Testing EquipmentBoring Bar InsertsBoring Bar Tool BitsBoring Machines/Connecting RodBoring Machines/CylinderBoring Machines/LineBoring Stand (For Portable Boring Machines)Brass FittingsBroachBushing Bearing & Seal Driver SetsCAD/CAM SoftwareCam Bearing Installation ToolCamshaft Degree Wheel (Digital)Camshaft GrindersCap & Rod GrinderCBN Inserts - NewCBN Inserts - ResurfacedCleaning Specialized EngineCNC Machining CentersCNC Retrofit KitsCompressed Air EquipmentConnecting Rod GaugesCoolant Filter MachinesCore Shift TesterCrack Repair EquipmentCranesCrankshaft Balance WeightsCrankshaft FurnaceCrankshaft GrindersCrankshaft Journal Weld KitsCrankshaft PolisherCrankshaft Polishing BeltsCrankshaft StraightenerCylinder Head Adapter PlatesCylinder Head Assembly/Disassembly Equip.Cylinder Head Chamfering ToolCylinder Head GaugeCylinder Head HoldersCylinder Head PolishingCylinder Head PortingCylinder Head Pressure TesterCylinder Head StraighteningCylinder Hone StopsCylinder Porting ToolsCylinder Sleeve PressDemagnetizersDiamond DressersDiesel Injector Hole Repair ToolsDiesel Injector Sleeve Installation ToolDowel PullersDye Penetrant InspectionDynamometersEngine Adaptor PlatesEngine Cycle AnalyzerExhaust Leak DetectionFeeler GaugesFlexible Honing Tools/Brush HonesFlywheel GrinderFuel Injection Cleaning ServicesGrinder Head StraighteningGrinding CoolantsGrinding WheelsHardness TestersHead/Block Crack Repair KitsHead/Block Resurfacing (Belt/Sanders)Head/Block Resurfacing (Milling)Heat Tabs Temperature SticksHolding FixturesHone Stop FixtureHoning JigsHoning Machines Wrist PinHoning Machines/CylinderHoning Machines/LineHoning Machines/RodHoning Machines/Valve GuideHoning PlatesHoning StonesIgnition System TestersIn-Process Gauges(Cam and Crank Grinders)Inspection GaugesLeak Down TesterLeveling DeviceMagnetic Particle Inspection Crack DetectionMicropolishing EquipmentOHC Line Boring ToolsOil Leak DetectionPCD Inserts - NewPin Fitting & Rod Reconditioning/TestingPin PressPin RemovalPiston KnurlerPiston Ring CompressorsPre-Cup Machining ToolsPush Rod Guide PlatesReplacement Chuck for Valve FacersRocker Arm GrinderRod AlignmentRod Bolt ProtectorsRod FurnaceRod VisesRun-In StandsStandsStud PullersTapsTest EquipmentThickness GaugeThread GaugesThread Repair & Replacement KitTorque PlatesUltrasonic Test EquipmentVacuum TesterValve Grinding BenchValve Guide & Seat Driver SetValve Guide & Seat MachineValve Guide Boring FixtureValve Guide HoneValve Guide KnurlingValve Guide PilotValve Guide ReamerValve Guide ToolValve Refacer (Cutter)Valve Refacer (Grinder)Valve Refacer WheelsValve Seat CuttersValve Seat InserterValve Seat PullersValve Seat ResurfacerValve Seat Runout GaugeValve Seat Tool GrinderValve Seat WheelsValve Spring CompressorValve Spring TestersValve Stem GrinderValve Stem Height MeasuringValve Stem PolisherWater Tube PullerWet Flow Bench Conversions Supplies & Service Chemicals & SolventsCore Cleaning & ProcessingCranes & HoistsHand ToolsLubricantsPressesServicesShippingStorage Racks & BenchesWelding

Whether you’re a professional engine builder, machinist or manufacturer, or an automotive enthusiast who likes engines, racing and fast vehicles, Engine Builder offers content aimed at you. Our print magazine offers in-depth tech features on everything you need to know about engine building and its different markets, while our newsletter options keep you up-to-date on the latest news and products, tech info and personalities in the industry. But, you only get all of that if you subscribe. Subscribe now to receive Engine Builder magazine in print and/or digital each month, and our Engine Builder newsletter, Engine of the Week newsletter or Diesel of the Week newsletter directly in your inbox each week. You’ll be covered in horsepower in no time!

ByDr. Raj Shah & Daisy Ann Norman on Mar 18, 2022

Click here to view past issues.

Get the latest news, insights, and more delivered directly to you inbox.

The small blocks are preferred over the big blocks in dirt racing because of their lighter weight for better handling through the turns. In this type of racing, the way your car drives through the corners is way more important than horsepower down the straights.

Dirt Late Model racing was originally a grassroots division that sported old Ford coupes with Flathead Ford V8 engines and home-built race cars that were VERY unsafe. These racers risked life and limb for a trophy.

The division has now become professional in every way possible. Multi-million-dollar purpose-built dirt racing facilities that hold thousands of spectators are now the norm. Major sanctioning bodies that promote over 100 races per year paying millions of dollars in prize money AND a trophy. The race cars are $100,000 purpose-built factory race cars with engines that can hook-up 900 horsepower on dirt. Dirt Late Model racing has come a long way in 70 years or so.

There are two major sanctioning bodies in Dirt Late Model racing – the Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series and the World of Outlaws Late Model Series. Both of these sanctioning bodies promote 50-60 races per year each with prize money varying from $10,000 to $100,000 to win every race. Both series pay their season champion $125,000 – $150,000. Both sanction bodies have races on TV, and some of them are live. As you can see, Dirt Late Model racing is BIG business.

The business side of Dirt Late Model racing is one thing, but the main reason for this article is to discuss the engines involved in Dirt Late Model racing. Nearly all, about 99% of the engines used in this type of racing, are either small block Chevrolet or small block Fords.

The small blocks are preferred over the big blocks because of their lighter weight for better handling through the turns. In this type of racing, the way your car drives through the corners is way more important than horsepower down the straights.

One thing to remember about these engines and this style of racing is that it is truly a ‘run what you brung’ and ‘hope you brung enough’ division. The rules are very minimal. Two valve per cylinder pushrod V8 with one carburetor on gas. That’s it!

The small block Chevrolet that is used in Dirt Late Model racing has evolved from the original 1955 265 cubic inch V8 small block. The blocks these days are made from aluminum with steel main caps and the bore centers have been widened from the original 4.400˝ to 4.500˝. This allows you to run a much larger bore.

The crankshafts and connecting rods are both billet steel and are paired with a forged or billet aluminum piston with low tension rings for less drag on the cylinder walls. Roller cam bearings are used in conjunction with 55-60mm camshaft journals for less camshaft deflection. Camshaft belt drives are used for less valvetrain harmonics. Large diameter roller lifters are used for better valvetrain stability.

On the oiling side of things, aluminum dry sump oil pans are utilized with up to four pick-ups inside the pan for better oil scavenging. The aluminum cylinder heads used will vary from engine builder to engine builder, but anything goes, so each builder has their own design that hopefully will give them an advantage over the competition.

When it comes to cylinder head selection, you’ll typically find 10- and 11-degree valve angle heads along with SB2-type cylinder heads as well. Titanium valves will be used exclusively with the latest trend in valve springs, which is a very small diameter spring with low seat pressure. The rocker shaft system will utilize steel rockers bolted to a very rigid steel stand along with large diameter, thick wall pushrods. This keeps the valvetrain stable for 9,000+ rpm.

Up top, the intake manifold choice also varies between the different engine builders as everyone has their own secrets. You will see anything from a cast, hand-ported manifold to an exotic, CNC-ported, billet manifold.

In addition, most engine builders will look for added performance through the use of different types of coatings on different parts of the engine. Bearings, pistons, piston pins and valves are popular areas where applied coatings can help the engine parts live longer.

The small block Ford that is used in Dirt Late Model racing has evolved from the 1968 351 cubic inch V8 Windsor engine. The Ford is built in exactly the same way as the Chevrolet engine. The most popular cylinder head for the Ford engine is the D3 Yates head. This cylinder head was originally developed for Outlaw type engines and then was used by Ford in NASCAR until the introduction of the current FR9 program.

The two engine packages (Ford and Chevy) make about the same peak torque and horsepower numbers, but the big difference is in how they drive on the race track. Generally, the Ford has more power above peak horsepower and the Chevrolet has more power below peak torque. Each driver is an individual who wants his engine package to perform in a certain way, so inherently some drivers prefer Chevys and some prefer Fords.

The stresses involved in a Dirt Late Model engine are incredible. I personally think these engines are more stressed than any other type of oval track racing engines. Dirt Late Model engines are making 700+ lb.-ft. of torque and over 900 horsepower! They have a very high compression ratio and the rpm varies from 2,500 to 9,000+!

Pistons are one of the more highly stressed components due to exposure of speeds of almost 6,000 fpm! These engines also have to run 600+ miles before a rebuild, typically. Valve springs are changed at the 300-mile mark as these components are also prone to premature failure. One big issue is keeping them cool. Since the noses of the race cars are scraping the ground, no air gets under the nose. In fact, you can’t have any grill opening on the cars because you will pack your radiator full of dirt!

In short, building a competitive Dirt Late Model engine is one of the most challenging endeavors a performance engine builder can do. If you find success, it can be a very rewarding market, and one in which racers will keep coming back for more. EB

Engines: Choosing Between the LS and the LT: The King and the Heir to the Throne

Engines: Vintage Engines: Rebuilt to Drive

Engines: Off-Road Race Engines

Engines: Motorcycle Drag Race Engines

100% On-Time Shipment Protection

Professional Sales Consultant Team To Provide You With Professional Solutions

Good Quality, Lowest Price, Best Service

Dirt Late Model Engines - Engine Builder Magazine

Featured Products

News & Blog

Uruguay, Peru hope to seal World Cup passage as Chile, Colombia fates look dire

Chicopee Provision, maker of Blue Seal Kielbasa, stages yet another comeback - masslive.com

! Murcia Today - The Grey Seal Found On El Portus Beach Returns To The Mediterranean By Itself

Tips for buying a second-hand Challenger MT765E tractor - Farmers Weekly

How to repair an AMT gearbox | Team-BHP

PC Gamer

Elden Ring Millicent questline guide | PCGamesN

Construction Equipment Rental Market 2022 Latest Innovations, Business Senario Outlook By 2028 – ChattTenn Sports

Coatings World: 2022 CEO Forum - Coatings World

Sublette Examiner | Legislative Update – March 8-11