Why Are D.S.S. Main Supports So Important?

  It seems that everybody today is trying to get more and more power from their engines.  Increasing engine RPM’s, or adding nitrous, turbos' or superchargers are some sure ways to increase power, but they can be very tough on durability.  Additional stresses generated by running higher RPM’s or using power adders are transferred directly through the pistons, rods and crankshaft  to the block’s main webbing.  Commonly, the reciprocating force can overwhelm the main bearing caps and the fasteners that hold them in place.  Under heavy loads, the caps will shift or “walk” from side to side.  This movement is transferred to the ends of the main cap fasteners, causing the threads to become fatigued.  Eventually the main web cracks, leading to a loss in oil pressure and possibly total destruction of the block and internal components.  To combat this problem, Ford Racing offers Splayed Four-Bolt main racing blocks.  While excellent pieces, the price puts them out of reach for the average enthusiast.  This is where the D.S.S. Main Support System comes in.  Starting at $299.95 the D.S.S. Main Support System is a very cost-effective way to add strength to a production block without breaking the bank.

  Made of  3/4” Billet 6061-T6 aluminum,  the D.S.S. Main Support System effectively dampens damaging harmonics, virtually eliminating main bearing walk.  The Main Support Plate is fastened to the main caps using custom ARP main studs (included), effectively  tying all five main caps together. By adding another main web structure you dramatically increase the block’s strength, helping both block and crankshaft life.  Our Main Support System makes it possible to produce 650-plus horsepower from a production block.

Close-up of main web/ main cap parting surfaces

Shown in the photo's at right is the metal transfer or welding that takes place in high horsepower, ( above 400 HP. ) production block engines.  This is a direct result of main cap walk.  The D.S.S. Main Support System helps eliminates main cap walk and the metal transfer that occurs, protecting the block and rotating assembly. 

Cracking the main webbing in a production block is common on engines without a Aluminum Main support to dampen the harmonics. The D.S.S. Main Support System Ads an additional 3/4" thick main web to support the main and dampen the Harmonics that crack blocks. This system Has been Race proven in numerous  650+ Hp production block applications .  

When the main caps are allowed to move on a production block so does the main bolt or stud. With the bolt or stud prying on the block like a pry bar It doesnt take too long to crack the threaded hole in the block.

Rick Merick has run our Super Pro 306  over 400 passes in the 9.70's . Running 300 HP. NOS is tough on parts. Our Super Pro 306 with Billet Aluminum Main Support is the key to high horse power production block life.