I have done a fair amount of searching and have never been able to find any info about Belfabs shortblocks

I have an 05 MSM with DP/exhaust/intake/intercooler/550s/Hydra and recently picked up a FMII downpipe and exhaust manifold.
I am looking to upgrade to something aroung gt2871 or so and was looking to beef up the rods mostly.
maybe I am just lazy but I was looking at the Belfab shortblocks and the prices seem pretty decent. This will not be a mega HP build. Has anyone used one of their shortblocks? I know of many horror stories about improper clearances etc from different machine shops so I would prefer to go with something at least reasonably realiable.
Would also be open to suggestions for a reliable machine shop local to me-Portland, OR area

 

If you're thinking about changing the rods (which btw, I agree you should do if posible) why are you contemplating changing your shortblock too?

Do you have any issues with your current motor? Are you consuming too much oil, etc.?

 

Well, if I am going to pull the motor, I would rather put forged pistons in with some stout rods, fresh rings/bearings/oil pump and a rehone of the cylinders for the fresh pistons/rings.
It just seems reasonable to do this all at once-rather than contemplate pulling the block again at some point especially if something fails.

 

I'm currently in the process of purchasing Belfab's piston and rod combo for my 96. I didn't find the need to do anything else. I'll have my block honed and be done with it.

If you see fit to buy the shortblock; then, by all means do so.

 

Do they use a billet oil pump?

 

Jason; why is that so important? BTW, I think they do.

 

because supposedly at high rpm or high power or something like that they don't have the tolerances and strength needed to last

 

Looks like they dropped the price on the rods/piston combo since I purchased a set last Summer.

 

Rafa, the stock oil pump doesn't live long above 8000 RPM - they shatter.

 

I can see your dilemma...if you buy the parts kit...you would still need to take it to a shop around where you live...and possibly get bum service - whereas with Belfab...you get it all done right the first time.

For $800 more than the rebuild kit...just get the short block...worth the peace of mind alone.