Chevrolet Performance introduced the ZZ632/1000 crate engine-said to be the largest and most powerful crate engine in the brand's history. The naturally aspirated 632 cubic inch V8 engine produces 1,004bhp of power and 876 lb-ft of torque.

"This is the biggest and worst crate engine we have ever built," said Russ O'Blenes, Director of General Motors' Performance and Racing Propulsion Team. "As the king of performance, the ZZ632 is at the top of our unparalleled crate engine series. It provides incredible power, and it is achieved by pumping air."

The Big Block V8 reached peak power at 6,600 rpm and the speed reached the recommended maximum of 7,000 rpm. Fuel is provided by eight-port injectors, and the engine provides symmetrical ports through CNC-machined high-flow aluminum cylinder heads. Although the shape of the intake port of the traditional bulk design varies from cylinder to cylinder, all eight intake ports of ZZ632 have the same length, volume and layout. Similarly, all exhaust ports of ZZ632 are the same. This symmetry ensures that each cylinder produces similar power.

These RS-X symmetrical port cylinder heads are named after powertrain engineer Ron Sperry, who designed it as one of his final achievements in more than 50 years of GM performance and racing engines. Sperry also introduced symmetrical ports for Chevrolet's iconic Small Block V8, which was equipped with the Gen III LS1 engine that debuted in the 1997 Chevrolet Corvette.

The iron block of ZZ632 shares a mold with Chevrolet Performance's ZZ572 crate engine, but the casting is processed to fit the huge displacement of 632 cubic inches. Compared with the 572 cubic inch V8 engine, the bore is increased by 0.040 inches, and most of the displacement gain comes from an increase in stroke of 0.375 inches. To provide clearance for long strokes, engineers modified the slider and connecting rod. The four-bolt main cap and forged rotating components ensure strength and durability. During the development process, an engine withstood more than 200 simulated drag belt tests on a dynamometer.

Chevrolet Performance ZZ632 Crate Engine

Since 2007, Lawrence has been studying engineering disciplines-with a focus on racing technology-and editing and contributing to various international publications. Currently, he is responsible for the content of the UKI Media & Events website portfolio and also contributes to the company's print publications.

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