You are currently viewing our forum as a guest, which gives you limited access to view most discussions and access our other features. By joining our community, at no cost, you will have access to post topics, communicate privately with other members (PM), respond to polls, upload content and access many other special features. Registration is free, fast and simple, so please join our community today!
Okay guys. As most of you know, I'm in the process of doing my 67. The original plan was to go with the 390, and a four speed. But, I've been having second thoughts on going with the FE motor, and maybe thinking of switching to a 351. better fuel economy (I plan on driving this a lot), and more options for trannys, to say, a five speed. But, the FE does have that power I'd like. I don't know. Thought I'd throw this up and get some input...
i'm doing a 351 in my 56. I say if you plan on driving it a lot, then you need a engine that you can get parts easy (not expensive) and almost anywhere if on the road. next, get something somewhat unique that people will do a double take! personalize it!
Take if from a man that knows - Miles per Gallon and FE's don't go together unless its Gallons per Mile. Newer engines and transmissions can make an improvement but I would think that the best your going to get with a 351 carbed or fuel injected is going to be 15 to 18 highway. Your 390 with a 4 speed and 350 gears could get you 12 to 15 highway. Around town 351 best your going to get is 12 (if your lucky) and with your 390 would be around 9 or 10. Your going to spend more cash building a 351, and if you go with fuel injection its going to cost you even more.
My oppinion - Move forward with the 390, finish the truck and if you want to put a different tranny and engine in down the road it will be easy enough to do. Lots of room in these old dogs and easy to make mods on them. Lets face it - They are never done (As the 428 crank, rods and stuff that are sitting in my office waiting for rebirth can attest to!).
Yeah, I'm torn on this. I really, really would like to run the FE. But, it's damn tough finding tranny's to fit these things, other than the early four speeds. And, parts are pricey, and kind of limited. On the other hand, can't beat the power and torque of the 390!
Just curious why you are so worried about what tranny's are available for the FE's.....what is wrong with a T-18 or NP?? Depending on what you are going to do with it, with 3.50 gears, you are going to like the torque of a FE alot more!! Get the 428 stuff and build a 410, then you'll like it even more!! I guess you just need to decide if you want a truck or a truck disguised as a car so you can drive it down the highway.
And, my 390 doesn't do that bad. It still gets 9.5 or so with me RODDING around town. Nothing special, just a C6, 3.54 rear gears, and 265/70/16 tires. And it probably doesn't help that I have a 2500 stall and a big ol' lopey cam.....
-Jake
__________________
Official NE Chapter Photobucket Guy
69 F-250 "Mild" 390/C6 3.54 LS 3rd Generation Family Owner
74 F-250 4x4 390/C6 3rd Generation Family Owner
09 GMC Sierra 1500 (Daily Driver)
Just curious why you are so worried about what tranny's are available for the FE's.....what is wrong with a T-18 or NP?? Depending on what you are going to do with it, with 3.50 gears, you are going to like the torque of a FE alot more!! Get the 428 stuff and build a 410, then you'll like it even more!! I guess you just need to decide if you want a truck or a truck disguised as a car so you can drive it down the highway.
Well, it will see a lot of highway use, I plan on driving it a lot. If I can find a T-18, and two speed transfer case, I'll probably stick with the 390. I'm just keeping my options open for now!
This forum is owned and operated by Internet Brands, Inc., a Delaware corporation. It is not authorized or endorsed by the Ford Motor Company and is not affiliated with the Ford Motor Company or its related companies in any way. FordŽ is a registered trademark of the Ford Motor Company.
Having second thoughts...Opinions please!
Let me know what you think!
