TA Perf Alum Blocks

[aperrego]

Outta curiocity, has anyone acquired AND assembled the TA Perf block?


If so can you share your experiences? Both Good and BAD.

Also what is the buildup?
Crank, Rods, Heads, CAM, the longblock as a whole. :fragez:

[Sixgun86gn]

I am still waiting on mine to get here.Its being used to design the custom poly motor mounts that they require for installation.Nick told me I should be getting it soon.I hope I do.I want to hear about these too.

[HairDrier]

So does that mean no one else has received one yet?

[Larry]

So does that mean no one else has received one yet?

As of Mid Dec there is no one that has one running. I ordered assembled block and heads almost 2 years ago. I have been in contact at least once per month since. As of Mid Dec 03- I am told I should expect the assembled long block early Jan 04. Parts were recently sent out for balancing.I have gone ahead and ordered everything else in anticipation of receiving this. Ex: turbo,cam, weldon pump, redid rear suspension and added 10 pt roll cage. I am told I am one of three to have there's 1st. Its been a long time, but- I believe Mike and his Wife (Sherri) are commited to getting this out as soon as possible and at the same time want it to be as problem free as possible. Larry

[TURCH]

larry, you are going to have one hellova screeming gn....i know you are doing everything right and can't wait to see its virgin run.... ron... :arco: aka"the roach"

[HairDrier]

Thats why my car will never be fast. If I shelled out $3500 and two years later had no engine I would never hear the end of it. I am not knocking TA Perf, just saying I could never wait that long.

When they do get things going it will be sweet though

[GrndNatnl]

There's that bad of a wait on those blocks? Whats the holdup?

[aperrego]

As of Mid Dec there is no one that has one running. I ordered assembled block and heads almost 2 years ago. I have been in contact at least once per month since. As of Mid Dec 03- I am told I should expect the assembled long block early Jan 04. Parts were recently sent out for balancing.I have gone ahead and ordered everything else in anticipation of receiving this. Ex: turbo,cam, weldon pump, redid rear suspension and added 10 pt roll cage. I am told I am one of three to have there's 1st. Its been a long time, but- I believe Mike and his Wife (Sherri) are commited to getting this out as soon as possible and at the same time want it to be as problem free as possible. Larry


Larry,

So they are providing everything up to the intake?

[HairDrier]

There's that bad of a wait on those blocks? Whats the holdup?

I assume Larry was one of the first people to reserve a block. I think everyone going in knew there would be a wait while the bugs were worked out and the blocks were tested. But the blocks were tentatively scheduled to be ready by summer I think, so they are maybe 6 months overdue. However its better to wait and get a sound block then have it rushed and become a debacle

[Larry]

I sent my Stock intake and front cover to T/A in October. They ported the intake to the heads. They need the front cover the turn the motor over to confirm oil pressure. They will not start it. Yep- it is a long time and I am taking a big risk. But- so is T/A. Because of my investment here, I traveled out to Arizona last March to meet Mike and see his operation. He has a VERY clean and professional facility. He is a detailed commited kind of guy. This is one serious and expensive project for him also. I left there knowing its going to take time- but, in the end it will be worth it. As to why the block and heads are taking so long? With a redesign such as this- you find things along the way that you simply did not anticipate Ex:The casting foundry can not meet their deadline, promisses from venders who suplied parts such as cyc sleeves and main caps come thru late, a machine shop you count on gets behind on other work, cranks come in cut to the wrong specs and need redone, interference problems you did not anticipate, the Motor mounts need redesigned etc.
I am not happy waiting, but- I am an optomistic person and I try to undestand all these roadblocks. I realize there are no guarantees. We all know the availability of stage motors is thin at best (try buying one that doesn't have issues with it) and I simply deceided to put my faith in Mike and his project. Am I nervous, excited, worried, anxious -- yep and broke to. Larry :arco:

[REDS TTYPE]

they also started out talking about a halfway reasonable price also for the block but guess their heads are swelling already and so did their prices.


whatever floats your boat ..they look to be a sweet piece but not enough lube for most of us to bend over for one

sell em for the $2500 price range and sell alot more of them or jack the price to $3500 or more and not have to make as many...

[plowboy72]

any pictures of this block? And let me get this right this is a new casting of a stage 2 block?

[Larry]

any pictures of this block? And let me get this right this is a new casting of a stage 2 block?

New block- six bolt mains. I know its expensive.However, can you imagine the time that went into this? Trying trying to make the block stronger that a steel stage block and able to except bolt on's from the stock and stage blocks? Overall- building an exsisting stage II may cost $9000- $14,000. vs a T/A block $12000- 17000. Either way- it calls for a few trips to the bank.
For photos - Click here: TA Performance Table of Contents Page Larry

[TURCH]

here are some pix....

[Larry]

here are some pix....
Thanks Ron- I could not get the page up. Larry

[TRKYshoot]

I was exited about the TA block until the girdled stock block started going 9's. I would much rather spend the $$ on a girdled 109 than the $$$$$ on a TA block.

Not to shit on TA at all, as they are obviously putting a lot of time and effort into the project!


BT :marchmell

[gasketmaster]

I was exited about the TA block until the girdled stock block started going 9's. I would much rather spend the $$ on a girdled 109 than the $$$$$ on a TA block.

Not to shit on TA at all, as they are obviously putting a lot of time and effort into the project!


BT :marchmell

Let's see how many passes they get in the 9's before they come apart :zahn:

[HairDrier]

Yeah in the long run the TA block would be the way to go. A 9 sec stock block has to be redone every year at least, while a TA block would go at least 2-3 seasons at that power level. Also the heads will stay on a lot better so you get to spend more time racing and less time with the valve covers off.

If your goal is to break the 9's to say you did it go 109. If your goal is to stay there go TA :rock:

[Intercooler]

A lot of assumptions there on a block that hasn't made its first pass at any track or for that matter been assembled yet. How many people do you know running aluminum blocks to base this info on? Fact of the matter is stuff moves around more with an aluminum block so rebuilds may be more frequent than you think.

[HairDrier]

A lot of assumptions there on a block that hasn't made its first pass at any track or for that matter been assembled yet. How many people do you know running aluminum blocks to base this info on? Fact of the matter is stuff moves around more with an aluminum block so rebuilds may be more frequent than you think.

Yes, on an aluminum block of EQUAL size. The TA block is NOT even close to equal size of a 109 block.

Jesse it may turn out that you have been correct all along on the TA block, but for the future of Turbo Buick performance I hope not.

[Intercooler]

When I was looking at the one down at Anderson's it didn't seem much larger than a 109. It is a very nice piece! I am with Red's though. If they made it $2,500.00 it would be well worth it to those wanting one but that extra $1,000.00 kills us low budget guys.

[HairDrier]

Heck $2500 would blow my budget :zahn:

[turbodave]

A lot of assumptions there on a block that hasn't made its first pass at any track or for that matter been assembled yet. How many people do you know running aluminum blocks to base this info on? Fact of the matter is stuff moves around more with an aluminum block so rebuilds may be more frequent than you think.
I'd have to disagree for the most part. It's not like the block hasn't already gone through some pretty stiff test procedures on the dyno's.
And the misinformed belief that alumunim blocks just don't hold up as well as iron is mostly due to old info. Modern technology, hardening process' etc. make for modern aluminum blocks being every bit as good as thier counterparts.
You do realize that almost EVERY major automotive manfacturer in the world today is making all aluminum engines, especially where high performance is demanded. Chevy, Ford, Porsche, BMW, Mercedes and the list goes on and on.
Aluminum engines aren't what they used to be 20 years ago.

I think you're doing entirely too much squacking about a technology that's been proven over and over again my many other manufacturers.
Good grief, even top fuel blocks (8,000+hp) are aluminum. :SHOCKED:

[Intercooler]

Must be statements from someone looking to go that route. Let's see it first before we jump to any conclusions. :tuschel:

[Larry]

When I was looking at the one down at Anderson's it didn't seem much larger than a 109. It is a very nice piece! I am with Red's though. If they made it $2,500.00 it would be well worth it to those wanting one but that extra $1,000.00 kills us low budget guys.

Ahhhh- price went up- $3,900! See- you should have jumped at it while they were at $3,500. How's that go?? He who hesitates drives in the right hand lane- or something like that. :moa: Geessss- if Im wrong on this project- I'll be eating crow for many a year! Larry :couch:

[jmidolo]

When I was looking at the one down at Anderson's it didn't seem much larger than a 109. It is a very nice piece! I am with Red's though. If they made it $2,500.00 it would be well worth it to those wanting one but that extra $1,000.00 kills us low budget guys.


For 2500 you'd be hard pressed to find yourself a crate 109 shortblock. I paid 2500 for my in the crate motor back in 97 when there were rare back then. 2500 you're living in fantasy land.

Undertaking a project like this is quite a feat. The amount of risk involved on the vendors part is HUGE..monetary and reputation wise. He's not going to do it to LOOSE money, making money is the goal here. Nor is he going to do it half assed without testing it properly and have his name dragged through the mud when one fails. That will inevitably happend when joe knucklehead tries to save 500 bux and has his neighbor Chevy mechanic put it together and f's up something and blames it on the block. You just KNOW that's coming.

If I were looking to go that fast, I'd look at this as an option, why not...and 3900 bux..big deal. IF you don't like the price, don't buy one..

The "low budget guys" are always the first to bitch about the price being too high, then complain when they get something cheaper that doesn't do what they wanted or breaks or whatever...gotta love it! :nada:

[Larry]

For 2500 you'd be hard pressed to find yourself a crate 109 shortblock. I paid 2500 for my in the crate motor back in 97 when there were rare back then. 2500 you're living in fantasy land.

Undertaking a project like this is quite a feat. The amount of risk involved on the vendors part is HUGE..monetary and reputation wise. He's not going to do it to LOOSE money, making money is the goal here. Nor is he going to do it half assed without testing it properly and have his name dragged through the mud when one fails. That will inevitably happend when joe knucklehead tries to save 500 bux and has his neighbor Chevy mechanic put it together and f's up something and blames it on the block. You just KNOW that's coming.

If I were looking to go that fast, I'd look at this as an option, why not...and 3900 bux..big deal. IF you don't like the price, don't buy one..

The "low budget guys" are always the first to bitch about the price being too high, then complain when they get something cheaper that doesn't do what they wanted or breaks or whatever...gotta love it! :nada:

well said joe. Overall- I believe all us Buick Nuts are hoping for the best with this project. Larry :applaus:

[jmidolo]

well said joe. Overall- I believe all us Buick Nuts are hoping for the best with this project. Larry :applaus:


Thanks, I get the sense just from this thread and other threads I've read that the people who are too cheap to pony up the cash almost want to see the project fail just becuase the price is not agreeable with them which is just ****ing stooopid.

[Larry]

Thanks, I get the sense just from this thread and other threads I've read that the people who are too cheap to pony up the cash almost want to see the project fail just becuase the price is not agreeable with them which is just ****ing stooopid.

Cool down Joe :fechten2: . It is alot of money, but- more often than not, you get what you pay for. Larry :rock_dj:

[TURCH]

Cool down Joe :fechten2: . It is alot of money, but- more often than not, you get what you pay for. Larry :rock_dj:
larry..... you da man !!!!!!! :applaus: :applaus: :applaus: :applaus:

[turbodave]

For 2500 you'd be hard pressed to find yourself a crate 109 shortblock. I paid 2500 for my in the crate motor back in 97 when there were rare back then. 2500 you're living in fantasy land.

Undertaking a project like this is quite a feat. The amount of risk involved on the vendors part is HUGE..monetary and reputation wise. He's not going to do it to LOOSE money, making money is the goal here. Nor is he going to do it half assed without testing it properly and have his name dragged through the mud when one fails. That will inevitably happend when joe knucklehead tries to save 500 bux and has his neighbor Chevy mechanic put it together and f's up something and blames it on the block. You just KNOW that's coming.

If I were looking to go that fast, I'd look at this as an option, why not...and 3900 bux..big deal. IF you don't like the price, don't buy one..

The "low budget guys" are always the first to bitch about the price being too high, then complain when they get something cheaper that doesn't do what they wanted or breaks or whatever...gotta love it! :nada:
Well said Joe. :applaus:

I couldn't agree more. I'm not sure I understand why there are those that think aluminum engines are for some reason weaker than iron. Sure, if all things were identical they would be a little weaker, but all things are NOT equal. Aluminum blocks are built much better than their iron counterparts to hold up as good or better. Hell, it's even easy to see on those S2 aluminum blocks I have. Thicker webbing, more bracing, etc. etc. Another nice thing. These blocks I have are full on S2 blocks, and weigh exactly half what my iron 109 stock block weighs :eek: They may not be able to stand up to a 1200 HP build, but I have every confidence they could easilly handle a 750-800HP build.

It doesn't take a rocket scientilst to look at the detail, webbing, bottom end, top end that's built into the T/A blocks to see they are serious pieces and shouldn't have any difficulty holding a 1200hp buildup or even more, assuming they're built right.

If T/A is smart they'll demand to know exactly who's building the blocks for the customer and their qualifications to do so. The scenario you mentioned is bound to happen, and the most obvious blame will undoubtedly be the block :(

And for Intercooler's benefit, no, I'm not going "that route". I've got my own aluminum blocks to worry about getting built. And no they're not as strong as the T/A blocks, but they'll make and hold the hp I plan on running.

[Reggie West]

Let's see how many passes they get in the 9's before they come apart :zahn:


I know Duttweiler dynod a TA block and used TAs heads. He told me the motor made 1180 HP.

I think that is plenty to go 9's without trying to hard.

There are 2 guys that have TA motors up and running. Both of them are using twin 76s on the motors and if you know anything about Ken Duttweiler, he beats the shit out of motors on the dyno.

With some luck here, my Dad will be using a TA block soon and that combo will be with a 74 twin bb turbo. We'll keep you posted.

[gasketmaster]

I know Duttweiler dynod a TA block and used TAs heads. He told me the motor made 1180 HP.

I think that is plenty to go 9's without trying to hard.

There are 2 guys that have TA motors up and running. Both of them are using twin 76s on the motors and if you know anything about Ken Duttweiler, he beats the shit out of motors on the dyno.

With some luck here, my Dad will be using a TA block soon and that combo will be with a 74 twin bb turbo. We'll keep you posted.

Reggie,
My comments regarding reliability in the 9's was directed toward the 109 blocks not the T/A block :beerglass

[Larry]

I know Duttweiler dynod a TA block and used TAs heads. He told me the motor made 1180 HP.

I think that is plenty to go 9's without trying to hard.

There are 2 guys that have TA motors up and running. Both of them are using twin 76s on the motors and if you know anything about Ken Duttweiler, he beats the shit out of motors on the dyno.

With some luck here, my Dad will be using a TA block soon and that combo will be with a 74 twin bb turbo. We'll keep you posted.

Reggie- who assembled the block? Thanks larry

[COLD AIR]

Is it going to take as long to get (block) as a DeSlow F/M

[Reggie West]

Reggie- who assembled the block? Thanks larry


Ken Duttweiler built the motors.

[Reggie West]

Is it going to take as long to get (block) as a DeSlow F/M


No, the first run of 50 blocks are all gone. The next batch is due out the end of Feb. That is what I have been told.

[John Wilde]

Reggie,

Who are the two guys with the twin t-76 TA Motors.
Email me if you want it private!

[REDS TTYPE]

and I guess they are loving it while you guys are happy that the price keeps going up just think after they read your replies maybe they will make the next batch $4500 just so people like you will say cool you get what you pay for

btw mr I got it like that whys your shit so slow if your the king :fragez:

[nova II]

The bottom line is this its great to have new products to fill the needs of the buick clan but 3500 for the block and another 1500 of machining is alot of bread. After internals to match your looking at 12000 for hardware! Now the engine will be over a 1000 horses but that really narrows down the already small group you have in the buick community. Just a view from a newbie to the buick scene.

[Mike Licht]

Its all in business planing..........at this time they are $3900.........no dought some will be sold.
At $2500 way more would be sold, but at less profit.
But selling at a lower price with more units out the door you will make more money in the long run!
I do not run my own business so $3900 is too much bread for me,even $2500 is pushing things to the limit.
Fortunatly i already have a complete stage 2 motor so i do not have to worry about it, but i understand where you are coming from.
This is the problem with this whole project for TA IMO. Everyone thinks they are making a ton. A $2500 they will LOSE money on the first 200 or so blocks the way I see it. First is tooling and devolpment cost. Gotta be $100,000 but I bet quite a bit more. Then you have a casting, about $3 to 400. Cost about $900 to machine, This happens in house for them but they still have a very high dollar machine and labor. They also have ARP hardware, shipping from the foundry, storage (where do you put 50 blocks?), crateing (need a box and cardbooard don't cut it), advertising, plus all the little stuff ........ add it up, looks like the cost is well over 2500 to me for the first 200. The next thing is how mant blocks are REALLY going to be sold a couple hundred or so is about it as far as I can see. Would you want to invest 6 figures and not make a few bucks, .......I didn't think so. I give Mike at TA MUCH credit for sticking with this and coming up with what looks like a quality product and investing a ton of money when there is a very high possability of losing some of it. I hope he sells a thousand of them.
Mike Licht

[jmidolo]

btw mr I got it like that whys your shit so slow if your the king :fragez:


I suppose this was directed at me, not sure what you mean mr I got it like that, but I think 114 with a mild tune on the first outting is respectable. Forgive me for not wanting to blow it up and just run 30# out the first time.
If ya wanna make personal attacks go do it on the other board, it's been pretty good here till now.

I'd love to see ya pick up a TA block and put a PT51 on it so we can see the drama continue :rock:

[jmidolo]

Everyone thinks they are making a ton. A $2500 they will LOSE money on the first 200 or so blocks the way I see it.
Mike Licht


Oh Mike, you don't know what you're talking about, you only looked into doing it yourself, so you have no idea!! I know they are making a TON of money, so just let me be right..ok? :zahn:

Some people are just :joint:

^^ was a joke in case ya couldn't read through it :)

[Larry]

Oh Mike, you don't know what you're talking about, you only looked into doing it yourself, so you have no idea!! I know they are making a TON of money, so just let me be right..ok? :zahn:

Some people are just :joint:

^^ was a joke in case ya couldn't read through it :)

Joe, No hard feelings, but- Mikes right on the money. Our Buick World is very small when compared to others. A very small market. Mike at T/A has his neck out a mile in hopes he can sell these and he is well aware he has to be careful not to price himself out and still make a few bucks. He will have to sell many just to break even. Larry

[jmidolo]

Joe, No hard feelings, but- Mikes right on the money. Our Buick World is very small when compared to others. A very small market. Mike at T/A has his neck out a mile in hopes he can sell these and he is well aware he has to be careful not to price himself out and still make a few bucks. He will have to sell many just to break even. Larry

:dito:

Larrry, I know that, if you read the first few pages, you'll see I said exactly the same thing Mike did and people jumped on me...that's why I put "It's a Joke" in there...

[Larry]

:dito:

Larrry, I know that, if you read the first few pages, you'll see I said exactly the same thing Mike did and people jumped on me...that's why I put "It's a Joke" in there...

There I go again- :shot: Sorry Joe-Larry

[jmidolo]

There I go again- :shot: Sorry Joe-Larry


HA, no prob :beerglass

[REDS TTYPE]

not jumpin on ya just being a smartazz :zahn:

now back to my plot to destroy turbos :yessir: :joint:

[jmidolo]

not jumpin on ya just being a smartazz :zahn:

now back to my plot to destroy turbos :yessir: :joint:


It's all good. :beer: