Short Block: An engine WITHOUT the head(s). Usually includes the crankshaft, camshaft, rods and pistons.

Long Block: An engine WITH the head(s). It contains everything that the short block does. Usually does not include the oil pan, valve covers, and manifolds.

Small Block: The smaller of a manufacturers two series of engines. In the case of Chevy, the small block includes the 262, 265, 267, 283, 302, 305, 307, 327, 350, and 400.They have been made since 1955.

Big Block: The larger of a manufacturers two series of engines. In the case of Chevy, made from 1965 to present date, include the 366, 396, 402, 427, and 454.

Notice the overlap of small and big block displacements. The displacement measurements are in cubic inches. Note also that a small block can be a long block.  The terms define different characteristics of the engine.

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