Even my luck is good somtimes. Cracked bedplate and mainweb

[SSDiv6]

Originally Posted by art leong

I run an early block 99 (caravan/stratus). The oil drainback vent is different on the 2001 and up blocks.
I've talked to several people about the bedplate straps. They all seem to think they are worthless at best. They would be easy to make. You have to machine material off the bedplate to use them. I know of a couple of high HP cars that have broken blocks with them installed.
The balance was checked twice I bought the crank used it was supposed to be balanced but I had it redone (it checked out fine) Plus they just put it on the balance machine this morning.
I have been told that cutting the counterweights off, sometimes leads to bad harmonics

As regards to the bedplate straps not working, the failures I know that have taken place are on engines running turbos and exceeding 500hp. By the way, I am not implying your engine is not making enough power; I believe that if you use the turbo or SRT block with the straps with your current setup, it will increase the chances of survival.

Also, the reduction of the counterweights will affect the dynamics of the engine, especially on a 4 cylinder. Could you post a picture of the crank?

Another factor to consider is the engine mounting and the stiffness of the mounts. On a FWD, the acceleration and dynamics of the body and transaxle will have and effect on the block. By the way, do you have a filled block?