In the highly refined MERLIN X aluminum block World Products has incorporated a significant number of key technical features that set it apart from the competition. And because it’s been designed specifically for the street, marine and “Super” drag class market, the price of the MERLIN X is very competitive. Dollar for dollar, you won’t find a better value in big block Chevrolet technology. It’s manufactured to QS-9000 quality control standards.

One easy to spot difference between the MERLIN X and others is the use of horizontal ribs. Not only do they look cool, but they also serve to improve engine cooling and reinforce the cylinder bores.

Total bottom end dependability is achieved through the use of 1045 alloy steel billet splayed 4-bolt mains (much stronger than commonly used 1020 steel) with genuine ARP main studs and bolts.

The MERLIN X is compatible with all GM Gen IV components (cam location is standard) and is the best foundation for building a large displacement big block Chevrolet with total reliability. Factor in pricing that’s more than competitive, and you’ve got a winner!

GET IT PREPPED!
For the enthusiast who is planning to assemble an engine in their home garage, getting the block in a RACE-PREPPED state is a no-brainer. Our experienced staff performs important basic operations like:
• Deck milling +/- .0025”
• Main journal honing +/- .0004”
• Cylinder bore plate honing .001” oversized +/- .0005”
• Lifter bore honing +/- .0005”
• Block hot tanking
• Cam bearing installation
• Freeze plug installation
• Dowel pin and pipe plug installation
• Block deburring
• Machined surfaces sprayed with rust inhibitor
• Protective wrapping
More and more professional engine builders are also recognizing the benefits of ordering race-prepped blocks instead of endeavoring to perform these many tasks themselves. Many have realized that their time can be better spent doing critical assembly work such as degreeing in camshafts and setting up the valve train. By employing race-prepped World blocks the shop’s through-put can be accelerated, and there are demonstrated savings in terms of personnel, shop equipment, space and cash flow.

Whether you're an enthusiast or engine builder, save time and money!

Material: 357-T6 aluminum (strongest available)
Deck Height: 10.200"
Deck Thickness: .600" minimum
Cam Bearings: Standard Chevrolet big block set
Main Bearings: Standard Chevrolet
Camshaft Location: Stock
Lifter Bores: Indexed (stock .843" bore)
Bore: 4.240" (hone to 4.250") , 4.490" (hone to 4.500") or 4.590" (hone to 4.600")
Maximum Recommended Bore: 4.600"
Cylinder Wall Thickness: (.115" @ 4.500" bore, .065" @4.600" bore)
Water Jackets: Expanded for better cooling
Lubrication: Priority main oiling system
Oil System Features: Integral boss for front feed, boss for rear scavenge rear main cap has provisions for wet sump pump, drilled for dry sump valley scavenge lines, cross-feed lines between left and right lifter oil galleys
Filtration: Integral mount for spin-on filter
Oil Pan Rails: Solid (stock width) can be clearanced for strokers
Crank Clearance: 4.750" (using H-beam steel rods - sleeves may require notching)
Main caps: Splayed billet
Mounts: OEM starter and oil filter mounts
Block: Side ribs for extra strength & cooling - cross-ribs in valley
Motor Mounts: Dual (front and side)
Cylinder Head Holes: Blind tapped to prevent leaks
Weight: Approximately 140 lbs. with sleeves