I just bought an 81 ford f600 that has been converted over from diesel to gas. It has a big block in it, but I'm not sure which one. When I went to the autoparts place to get a manifold gasket they told me it was a 399??? I think they were "pullin mah chain". I have never heard of a 399 ford engine before. Has any1 else? Can someone help me identify this motor. Are there any identifying marks or characteristics that I could look for? Thanks for taking the time to read my ravings, and thanks in advance for any info.
Gregg

 

if it was swapped in place of a diesel, its probably an ft block. if they swapped transmissions too then anything could be in there. assuming its the original tranny and bellhousing then it would probably be a 534, 477, or 401. easiest way to tell if its an ft block is the fuel pump is at the top front of the motor. if it isnt, then its probably a 370 or 429 truck engine. if its one of those there should be a casting number between the valve cover and exhaust manifold- probably d3ve-a2a

 

It doesnt have the fuel pump on top, its drivers side front side of the block. The distributor is in the center of the intake manifold in front of the carb. The exhaust manifolds are reversable. I think its a 391, I guess I could have heard him wrong, he may have said 391. 391...399 kinda maybe sounds alike. He had a chaw of backer in when he said it. (Translation; when he said 39? he had a chew of tobacco in his jaw.)LOL
thanks,
Gregg

 

can ya post a pic some one here wil tell ya what it is

 

well... does the intake go underneath the valve covers? if it does then it could be a 391, in which case you might want to go over to the fe block forum- because it would be one