Mid plates...

So what's the deal between small hole and large hole midplates? Do the small hole plates eliminate the need for a block protector? I am changing my Malibu from an NA automatic car to a Blown 540 with a Lenco with a clutch. Please lets get past the obvious answer the hole size is what's different...

 

The large hole is more for weight but then you need a 1/8 block protector. And it moves the engine 1/8 further out. Or the small home and you deal with the 2 lbs it added lol. You want the block covered as much as possible in case of clutch failure. Much easier to replace a chunk of flat aluminum plate versus a engine block.

 

I believe for some classes it’s in the rules that the midplate hole can only be so large, but your allowed 2 cooling holes.