Hey Guys,,,Looked at a 87' Ford Motorhome today,,,found out it was a 460(owner was'nt sure),,,39k miles on it,,,seem to run ok,,maybe a slight skip exhaust (fuff fuff),,,Just wondering what kind of HP and Torq these things had ??

Looks all stock,,vacum hose's all over the place, airpump, EGR, etc.,,,,,Mark

 

Can't tell you what exact figures RE torque and HP but the torque will most likely peak at about 2200. 1987? probably carbed? Manifolds can be a problem with these applications. Headers help the problem. Emissions could be a problem if check required. What transmission? Early E4OD problematic. But you knew that. Service records?
I would be more concern about the size, weight, brand and condition of the motorhome itself than the 460. Look for water intrusion everywhere. If you find soft wood, run unless you're looking for a real project and can buy it right. Good luck.

BTW, don't expect over about 6-7 mpg.
And tires should be replaced after 5-6 years.

 

Yes it does have a carb,,,Pretty sure it's a C-6 tranny, No O-drive on shifter and the tranny Pan has the Notch/L-shaped,,,,, C-6 style I beleive ??

Yes could see some sagging/Bow in upper bunk area,,,lady said she had a Rubber roof Installed,,,

If I could find one this around this year in Good enough condition,,,usually pretty cheap,,,Just time and weather are the enemy!

 

If it's the same engine as in my '87 P/U it's rated at about 220Hp.

With only 39k on the clock I would suggest you swap the timing chain and plastic gears for a set that is not retarded.
For about $50 + gaskets it will make a big difference in how the 460 is able to drag that weight around.

 

check every exhaust manifold bolt 16 bolts, you might have to take the heads off to fix,once you get some good headers like BANKS on the 460 youll feel alot better no more worrys,i prefer the c6, the e4od will save gas but very costly when it breaks down

 

Wont be buying the 87',,trying to find something in better condition,,a few to many Dent/Dings!
So whats the Deal with the stock, retarded timing chain/gear setup on a 460 ??

Also do the stock exhaust manifold bolts Break easy/alot ?

 

All 385 series engines from 1971 (i believe) until they were fuel injected ('88 for pickups, '90 for motor homes and other chassis)
were 4 degrees retarded for emissions reasons.
By using pre 1970, post '88 or aftermarket performance timing set you will gain quite a bit of torque.

In a motor home droning along the highway for hours tends to warp or crack cast iron manifolds.
The studs get extremely hot and then the nuts come loose.
Exhaust leaks abound just because of the kind of service these vehicles see.

 

Great Info on the 385 series,,,thanks ArdWrknTrk !!