Short Block or Long???????
 

I have a 1983 944. How do I know if it is a short block or not? what is the difference between the two blocks?

The only difference i've ever heard of is a short block only has the crank shaft & pistons installed & a long block also has the heads & valve train installed.
I don't think that there is any difference in the motors, except i think the '88 has higher compression

+1 Overheard in a parts store: "Oh, I'd better get the short block. I don't think I'd be able to fit a long in there!". :rolleyes: Just another confusing term that refers to buying a rebuild and what's included. Not to be confused with "big block" in reference to American muscle cars.

The salesman at the store should have said "You better get the short block. You'll save on weight and the handling would be better!" :p

the question is....How can I tell what I've got? The block looks Normal sized....what makes it a short block and what makes it a large block. What would I look for that would tell me one way or the other??

The point is.. the block is the block. "Long" or "tall" bears no relationship. If you have no head on it then it's "short".

What's the difference?

ANS: The cylinder head ( which = a long block - a short block) :)

cheers
Russell

Short Block = 1/2 engine
Long Block = whole engine

If your engine is in the car and it runs, you've got a long block. Now turn the car off and remove the head, and fuel injection and you now have a short block (it's short a few parts). Same engine can be both

Has nothing to do with size.

I am now enlightened!!!!


I had no idea of the meaning of the short/long block. NOW I know,
thanks.

As far as I know, every bit of electric, plastic, accessories, fuel system, ignition system, intake, exhaust, the works is not included with a short block. You just get the block, crank, rods, and pistons. You may not even get an oil pan. Pretty much every part that can be removed from those few main components does not come on a short block.

They sell it as a cheaper option if you are rebuilding and want to start fresh with the critical engine parts and reuse all the stuff that either doesn't really go bad, is functioning fine already, or would be cheaper and/or easier to rebuild than to replace.