FE or 385 Series?
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Tuned
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 421
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FE or 385 Series?
So here is another question for you guys: How do the FE series engines compare to the 385 series big blocks -- namely the 429/<a href="http://www.motorhaven.com/">460 </a>versions? Still compiling research to extract a tired six from a 66 F100 and I hear all sorts of things. Depending on whom you talk to and which engine he is trying to sell often determines which motor is so much better. Let me know what you think.
Elder User
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 948
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From: McAlester, OK
FE or 385 Series?
I beleive that the 385s have "lighter" blocks (as in thinner walls at least), but the rotating assembly is alot heavier, so that part sucks compared to the FE. Now as far as parts go, the 385 has alot more parts avialible, especially in the means of manifolds. So if you want something that you can build easier, the 385 is the way to go, but if you don't mind searching or paying heavy prices for parts and being part of the elite FE crowd, get the FE.
The '66 also had the FEs in them already so mounts are avialible, but there probrbly are after markets for the 385.
Another note is that the 385s are ugly engines, especialy next to the beautiful FE.
The '66 also had the FEs in them already so mounts are avialible, but there probrbly are after markets for the 385.
Another note is that the 385s are ugly engines, especialy next to the beautiful FE.
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 6,624
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From: Missouri
FE or 385 Series?
Well, if you are looking for cheap aftermarket performance stuff and more cubes then I would go with the 385. If you want an engine that is almost impossible to kill and was an original option in your truck then I would go with the FE. The 385 is a newer design and is more efficient. The stock heads though have more exhaust flow problems than the FE does. They only flow 135 cfm@28 in. Hg. on the exit.
