I read on a different forum that a 2bolt main can handle up to 500 horsepower and up to 5000 rpm if it is balanced right. they even sudjested putting a 2bolt main with this kind of hp into a camaro because that is what they are "perfect for". I was wondering if this is true? can a 2bolt main handle this is or is it just better to find a 4bolt main.

 

There's nothing wrong with building a two bolt main block if you use a good forged steel crank,I've read some builders actually prefer the two bolt for blocks for block strength or something of that nature.
Anyway I've seen plenty of built two bolt blocks hold up just fine both big and small block.
5000 rpm is a no brainer,stock redline is 5500 on most Chevys.

 

Go ahead, use a 2 bolt main. We have been using them for years in my son's circle track cars and for street engines. Like Y2K said, use good quality parts. 500 horsepower is a good rule of thumb for the limit unless you spend extra time balancing and matching parts. However, a two bolt block can be converted to a four bolt which IMHO is a better block than a factory 4 bolt. Converted blocks have splayed outboard main cap bolts, less chance of flex and better torque handling capabilities. My stroker is a converted 2 bolt that over winter is getting a spray system to bring it to over 600 hp. I am not worried in the least about it.

 

I've built a number of SBC engines from 283 up to 350's with 2 bolt mains. Never had a main problem with any of them. My old '55 Chev was a punched out 283 that ran mid 13's with a two bolt main, and I shifted it around 6,000 rpm. It did a lot of 1/4 mile runs with no engine issues at all.

 

Personnally I would go for the 4 bolt, unless we are talking about the 400, but there is always alot of opinions on this question. http://speedtalk.com/forum/viewtopic...ht=400&start=0