460 Engine types and list
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Elder User
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460 Engine types and list
I have a 390FE and haven't decided if I am going to keep it or buy a 460. My main problem is I know nothing about the 460 or the different types. Don't get me wrong, I like the 390 but it's a pain in the *** to work on. I think more of poor design on Ford's end. I mean, a 2 " hose between the intake and water pump? (give me a break)
Anyway, I guess my question here is which 460 are you guys putting in your truck? Which one is the best and where do you get them? How much do they cost?
Or keep the 390?
Anyway, I guess my question here is which 460 are you guys putting in your truck? Which one is the best and where do you get them? How much do they cost?
Or keep the 390?
Senior User
Joined: Nov 2007
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From: Near Madison, WI
The 460 has the same hose. The trick is to cut it short, slide it all the way on to one nipple, than slide it part of the way back on to the other. In all seriousness, I wouldn't go changing out an engine just for the sake of change.
-Jared
-Jared
Cargo Master
Joined: Oct 2010
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I'm pretty sure all 73 to 78 blocks are the same. Maybe a heavy duty variant in there but basically the same. 79 and later switched to external balance with a different harmonic ballancer and flywheel. The casting number you want will start with D1VE. As far as heads you'll want D3VE or D0VE. The only other difference is your timing set and pistons . Buy a pre 71 and you get 0 degree straight up timing. As far as pistons stock is right around 8:1 compression and early cars were around 10:1. Depending on if you want to run super juice or not.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Nov 2010
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From: Axtell, TX
I'm guessing you're wanting some more power. How much do you want is the question. Knowing that will determine if it's better to go the 460 swap route or towards the 390, as far as money is concerned.
How much are you planning on spending?
How much are you planning on spending?
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I am really not sure how much they cost
Ford Parts Specialist
Joined: Nov 2006
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From: Simi Valley, CA
I'm pretty sure all 1971/78 and some 1979 blocks are the same.
Maybe a heavy duty variant in there (none) but basically the same. 79
and later switched to external balance with a different harmonic ballancer and flywheel.
The casting numbers you want are D1VE-6015-AB, AB1, AB2
Maybe a heavy duty variant in there (none) but basically the same. 79
and later switched to external balance with a different harmonic ballancer and flywheel. The casting numbers you want are D1VE-6015-AB, AB1, AB2
The 460 engine changed mid-year 1979, not at the beginning of the 1979 model run.
The externally balanced block casting number is D9TE-6015-AB
Since this was a "running change" there is no before/from a certain serial number or production date.
1973/79 Ford truck parts catalog sez inre to 1979: In order to obtain the correct parts (weighted spacer, harmonic balancer, flywheel), the block casting number must be known.
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2007
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From: Minnesota
Both are great engines. What is the situation with the 390? is it it healthy? Is is worn out? Are you looking at a rebuild or can you source a replacement engine that is decent enough to just transplant? Personally, I love 390's. I also love 460's. Both can be built very healthy depending on what your overall goal is. Talking about design issues, the 460 breaths like a pug dog. If your goal is performance, I would suggest spending money on your current 390, rather then spend money on a 460 and THEN spend money trying to make horse power.
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Elder User
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So you think I should just rebuild my 390FE? Will I see the same or close amount of power? I really just want it to sound good, and be able to tow a load and boat on my 250.
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Nov 2010
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From: Axtell, TX
Unless your 390 is worn out and tired, it should already do what you are wanting it to easily. IMO I would rebuild the 390. It doesn't sound like you are wanting an excessive amount of power (does such a thing exist? lol) so a rebuild should do you just fine.
What is it's current condition? low oil psi? burn oil/smoke?
What is it's current condition? low oil psi? burn oil/smoke?
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Nov 2010
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From: Axtell, TX
If you're not after 400+hp, then stick with rebuilding what you have. JMO.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Nov 2010
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From: Axtell, TX
It's all good. Now you know more, and that's the point right? 
When I first got into engines 10yrs ago I was wowed by all the pre 72 ratings as well. Then the reality check, "you mean my 360 doesn't have 220hp? only 145!?" lol I thought the new stuff wasn't very impressive compared to the old until I realized this.
When I first got into engines 10yrs ago I was wowed by all the pre 72 ratings as well. Then the reality check, "you mean my 360 doesn't have 220hp? only 145!?" lol I thought the new stuff wasn't very impressive compared to the old until I realized this.
New User
Joined: Jul 2011
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i own a 76 f150 2wd with 390 bone stock but the daul exht and i have not found anything that has cause it to be bad at hauling and i have had some big loads on it 3500 lbs of shale made it sit on the stops but pulled out in drive up hill not a guess at that was on scales and if you do the swap you will need alot engine, mounts, exht,bell houseing,clutch,acc brackets ,and that is just to start it depends on witch 460 you use as a swap i am doing a swap from a 400 to 460 on a 4x4 witch is not that bad same engine familey so if i was you let it alone but if you are looking for power they make strocker kits and stuff for the 390 well good luck with it
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I think I'll stick to my FE for now so I can save. I runs good but leaks, so I think I'll pull it and get it tanked, painted and rebuilt. I don't think it was going to be that bad when I called the shop. I have to get the body done and that is last on my list. Thanks for the tips guys.