 Several SEMA-member companies will donate components for the Dart LS Next cast-iron block SEMA Scholarship Engine. | |
The SEMA Scholarship Committee has announced that its 2013–2014 SEMA engine project will feature a 700+ hp package based on a Dart LS Next cast-iron block. The engine will be offered on eBay beginning December 12, 2013, and the proceeds will benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, which aids young men and women seeking careers in the automotive industry.
Heading the SEMA build team is Dart’s Richard Maskin, who has been the engine builder/crew chief for several NHRA National Points Championship-winning efforts in Pro Stock. Maskin has developed a 434-cid engine combination that is dyno-proven to generate in excess of 700 hp utilizing a single four-barrel carburetor on pump gasoline.
Dart’s LS Next block evolved from the LS Series engine family introduced by General Motors in 1997. This aftermarket iteration incorporates a number of features, the most noticeable being a redesigned bottom end (non Y-block) with improved oil control and a reduction in windage. It also utilizes six head bolts per cylinder and four-bolt steel main caps. A pair of CNC-ported Dart Pro1 aluminum cylinder heads will be employed in the SEMA Scholarship engine.
Components from a number of respected aftermarket firms are being used in the build. They include: Allstar Performance, ARP, ATI, Callies, Champion, Clevite, Comp Cams, Dart, Diamond, Fel-Pro, Hedman Hedders, Holley, Joe Gibbs Driven, Melling, Meziere, Moroso, MSD, PowerMaster, Total Seal and Trend.
The engine will be finished to the requirements of the buyer, whether it’s to be used for racing or the street.
SEMA’s scholarships are awarded to university, two-year college and trade school students pursuing a career in the automotive industry. A Loan Forgiveness Program also is available to employees of SEMA-member companies to help retire student debt.
For information on how to apply for a SEMA scholarship, visit www.SEMA.org/scholarships.
The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund is a recognized 501(3) charity, and the purchase price of the engine may be tax deductible (verify with your CPA or tax preparer). For additional information on the engine, or to get involved in the eBay sale, visit www.SEMAengine.com.