Andy, does a belt drive add HP, or durability? Not trying to be a smart butt. I just would really like to know. My local engine builder is pushing me to use a belt drive on our next engine. I'm just a low life braket racer. But if it makes the engine life longer I'd definitely consider it.
I always put a belt drive on a race engine. It just solves a bunch of problems and seals up leaks and makes adjustment easy and stuff like that. I probably wouldn't bother on a 500 hp bracket engine, but anything over 700 hp would get a belt drive if I build it.
Just had a 850 hp all aluminum 540 inch Indy motor come into the shop to get a refresh. Engine had a cheap timing chain in it that was cracked in multiple locations. This is a $30,000 engine with a $99 timing set. Guy is lucky that it didn't break since it could've taken out most of his investment.
