Short block is an automotive term describing an engine sub-assembly.
A short block is the portion of the engine block below the head gasket but above the oil pan. An in-block cam engine will also include the camshaft and timing gear. The overhead cam style of engine will not include the aforementioned parts on the shortblock. A shortblock is usually purchased to upgrade the water jacket, piston size or bore. Assemblies typically include the crankshaft installed and balanced along with the main bearing.
A short block is considered destroyed when it either warps or cracks.
Famous quotes containing the words short and/or block:
“Jealousy is never satisfied with anything short of an omniscience that would detect the subtlest fold of the heart.”
—George Eliot [Mary Ann (or Marian)
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—Richard B. Stolley (20th century)