This is the prototype Studebaker "Big Block" originally designed for the R3 heads.  I acquired this block a few months back and it had 2 cracked cylinders.  I had to sleeve the bores as most of the cylinders were pitted and in bad shape.  This block is the original 3.875" prototype block.  It has unique stampings on the block and no casting number.  There are no freeze plug bores and the block is a lot thicker.  The rear of the block is solid!  It did not have main caps, so I installed the 1045 forged steel 4 bolt splayed caps.

The connecting rods are the Howards 4340 forged steel pieces, with titanium wrist pins and are set in with double spiral locks.  The pistons are 3.880" Diamond Racing forged pistons.  The rings are Total Seal Gapless rings.  All the internal surfaces are coated with glyptol.  The crankshaft counterweights have been radiused and lightened up by 4 pounds.  The counter-weights have also been coated with teflon for superior oil resistance and shedding.  The oilpan is an original 8 quart unit with a home made extended oil pick-up.  The billet aluminum timing gear was modifed to make it an adjustable unit.  This will make things a lot easier when degreeing the camshaft. This allows for quick adjustments without using offset keys!