C1 Main Bearing Bolts-Joe Lucia Help

[Allen W.]

I am in the process of gathering parts to rebuild a 265 for my 56. I want to use new Main Bearing bolts. I got some numbers from an old Corvette parts book but my local dealer says the number is not current. GM parts direct gives no listing. The bolts are 7/16" 14 TPI approx 2 3/8" long. The ARP on line catalog does not list bolt lengths on the main bolt section. It just says small block 2 bolt main small journal. Trust them.

I would just as soon use the General's bolts if they are available. I would appreciate Joe's or any other help.
Allen

[Joe L.]

Re: C1 Main Bearing Bolts-Joe Lucia Help

Allen-----

The original main cap bolts for your 1956 265 cid engine were GM #3836341 (yes, this is the original 1954-issued part number; many engine parts of the early 50s were "38XXXX" series part numbers). These bolts were used for the main caps of all 1955-1961 265's and 283's. They were 7/16"-14 and 2-27/32" long. Unfortunately, they were discontinued without supercession in January, 1976.

I think that it's very likely that you could obtain similar bolts from Dorman. They manufacture a pretty good line of OEM-equivalent fastners for items like this.

What would I do? Well, I'd go with the ARP bolts. Absolutely. Positively. The kit for your engine should be their number 134-5002. However, your best bet is to give them a call and confirm the length of these bolts. There were actually 3 different length bolts used for small journal small blocks. These were 2-27/32", 2-31/32", and 3-9/32".

If their kit contains bolts longer than you require, just ask them to see if they have any 7/16-14 main bolts which are close to your original length total length and thread length. They will do this for you and sell you what you need, factory direct. Their phone number is 800-826-3045 or 805-339-2200.

The ARP bolts will be of FAR greater quality and strength than the original GM bolts or any other aftermarket equivalents.

[Allen W.]

Thanks Joe *NM*