Howdy all,
First let me apologize for what is probably a question asked a million times already. OK, here goes. What I would like to know is how to squeeze some more HP from an early '70s low compression 460. I have heard that in this motor the cam is retarded and that just replacing the timing set with the appropriate one will advance the valve timing with good results. Is this true? Also, I heard that the ignition advance curve and initial advance is retarded too. Is this true and if so what is a cheap fix? My engine is stock except for a 750 single pumper that the previous owner bolted on. Any tips or tricks to raise the output would be appreciated.

PS- Does anyone know of a serial number list on the web so I can identify exactly what year motor I have? Motor specs would be nice too. Many thanks for the help.

Randy Howard

 

Randy, first let me say welcome to the FTE Website.
All of your questions have been asked many times before...if you would go the bottom of the page in the right hand corner and click on some of the back pages you will find all the answers and more...its a wealth of information that will get you headed in the right direction. Deen


Deen Hylton
Ford F250 460 C-6, K&N, Headers, Dual Exh.,Comp. Cams,Shift Kit
Pioneer CD w/Bose Speakers.
Other Passion: Blown 77 Corvette (Sorry Guys/Gals)
How I can afford to Drive the above: 93 GEO Metro

 

My engine is also an early 70's "smogger motor".. Amazing, isnt it?
If you are going to the trouble of getting a new cam,etc.. you might as well spend a few bucks and warm up the rest of it.. Cam, timing chain(yes, straight up is good..),ignition, yea.
Be careful, though... before you just "throw in" a new cam, check your cam bearings.... the primary reason for oil failure in Ford bigblocks. Most likely will need new in a motor that old.
Straight up timing chain, Good, stiff cam, and a heap of headwork is pretty much all I did to mine.. If ya want details, either post back or email me at :
dual_Uzis(No Email Addresses In Posts!)
It takes time, and a little money, but from scratch, I have spent only 1200 dollars on my engine.. and running 14 second quarters in a 5100 lb vehicle.

J/.c

1965 Ford Galaxie 500 (okay, so not quite a truck)
460/C6 transplant @ 389hp/491 lb.ft.
14.29@103.8, 13-14 mpg heheheheheh

 

Duh... re-read your post.
tips and tricks, eh?
first, get rid of all the smog equipment.. it's not required anymore. THe smog holes in the front of the heads can be plugged, air pump and lines removed, etc. EGR valve should be replaced.
Timing set: new one. most will come with 3 settings, 4 deg. retarded, straight up, and 4 deg. advanced. set it straight up.
ignition? I'd say spend the 90 bucks on a Pertronix Igniter setup.. it will convert your distributor to electronic, and it's really easy.. definitely worth the money.
Obviously an free-flowing exhaust will help.. cheap is easy, good can be expensive...
Like I said before, anything else, by all means... email me.

J/.c

1965 Ford Galaxie 500 (okay, so not quite a truck)
460/C6 transplant @ 389hp/491 lb.ft.
14.29@103.8, 13-14 mpg heheheheheh