Roller and non-roller block differences

[BAD BOB]

whats the difference between a 302 roller and non-roller block. Is it just the lifters and the hold downs for the lifters or are the lifter holes machined different? Can i just put roller lifters in a non roller block and make hold downs for it?

[gearmesh, inc.]

The roller 302 blocks have taller lifter bores to support the taller factory roller lifters. But, nothing is keeping your from running a mechanical roller cam in a non-roller block as mechanical roller lifters are the same height as non-roller hydraulic lifters.