if you want to go with an engine thats powerfull and wont pass emisions its ok because 3 years ago i got an exta 460 from an auction truck that was smashed . come emision time i replaced my good engine with the auction one went through and passed emisions and the next week switched them back hehe of coarse i have a cherry picker i got from costco for 160 bucks that helped . any way i ran my good engine for the next 2 years and they didnt know the diference. i still got the stock one and im going to do it again this year. two weekends to switch and two years to drive its good #s to me lol...so dont tell the emision guys on me hehe

 

521_Ford, jwtaylor, and 90f150moneypit,

Thanks for your opinions regarding my questions! They are very helpful.

donttellmymom, you are far more ambitious than I am! I am far too lazy to engine swap before each emissions check!

521_Ford, that's great news regarding the chip! I look forward to hearing how your motor performs, especially with regards to the emissions check.

So, in your opinion, is it fair to say the following:

I can probably get away with any performance short block (whether it is labeled emissions friendly or not), a mildly aggressive camshaft (for example an "RV type of cam"), the emissions friendly pro topline heads, the stock intake manifold, Banks exhaust, and a Diablo chip. And I will be pleased with the performance while still remaining emissions legal?

rdcouch

 

"I can probably get away with any performance short block (whether it is labeled emissions friendly or not)"


I don't think that is accurate. There are a few factors to consider when choosing a short block. The first one that comes to mind is final compression, type of piston, lot's of clearances to consider, etc...... Keep in mind, Ford lowered the compression substantially (I’m trying to be nice) in CA emission 460's.
Ok, the truth is, they choked em down so far, it’s funny they run!

Whoever you choose for your short block, let them know your intentions, and if you aren't comfortable with their answers, there are other short block builders out there that know how to do what you’re looking for. I talked with a few before I found one that actually has a 460 in CA, and has taken it to the edge and beyond. Nothing like the ole’ “been there and done that”. It’s the very reason I come on this board, to share, and get educated by those that have been there and done that.

 

521_Ford,

Your comments have enlightened me on how a performance engine is much more than just the sum of the performance parts.

Initially I had this idea of simply rebuilding my engine in my basement over the winter. I bought the Chilton and Haynes manuals to give me a feeling for what is involved. I'm not a licensed mechanic by any means, but I'm competent with working on mechanical things. So I figured that I could handle the engine rebuild. Then I got to thinking that now is a good time to increase the performance of my motor. I simply reasoned that throwing in a different cam, better heads, etc would do the job. I have always drooled over the idea of adding a supercharger, so I figured better pistons, rods, etc would also be a nice addition now, in case I ever save up the cash for the blower. But, after talking with you and jwtaylor, I realize that the best approach to building the engine that I really want is to work with a reputable builder. There are clearly a lot of details to evaluate before putting the parts together. I like the idea of having someone with experience guide/take me through the process!


Thanks again for your two bits!

rdcouch

 

RD,

After I dyno mine, and get it through emissions, I'll show ya exactly the parts I used, and all the need to knows if your interested.

 

521_Ford,

I would definately be interested! A picture would be an added bonus!!

rdcouch