FE service blocks
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Senior User
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FE service blocks
So.......what exactly are the differences between a standard 390 block and a "service" 390 block? (Or any FE series service block)
I believe I have a 390 service block (with the vert. ribs below the soft plugs) and before I start my build for my truck, I would like to know a little history behind the service block. Any suggestions on where I could find some history on them?
I'll see if I can find some numbers on her this evening.
Mike
I believe I have a 390 service block (with the vert. ribs below the soft plugs) and before I start my build for my truck, I would like to know a little history behind the service block. Any suggestions on where I could find some history on them?
I'll see if I can find some numbers on her this evening.
Mike
Needsmorecoffee.
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 3,624
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From: CT
Service blocks are just an over the counter replacement block. The block will not have a casting number but will have a date code. Also should have the triple cranksaddle webbing as this was pretty much standard by the 70's service blocks. Ribs are rumored to add rigidity to the block and some say to help hold the aging FE molds together. Pick your favorite. You can decifer the date code by the two dots under the first digit. This is the year :2= 72 :3=73 etc...except the dots are under the digit. Next the letter code for the month and last the day cast. Overall very good blocks. G.
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Were service blocks all of the 360/390 version, meaning 4.05" bore or did some come with the smaller bore, 4.00"? I've got a service block as well and just want to know if their is any concern with boring them over.
Needsmorecoffee.
Joined: Oct 2004
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From: CT
I'd imagine you could get any FE/FT service block. I've only had 428 and 427 service blocks myself. Service blocks became kind of generic in the 70's. Most used the HD casting and were machined and bored to size called for. MCC was casting all the service blocks through the 70's except the 427 and 428 which remained at DIF. So if your block is just being cleaned up or bored within .060 it should be no problem at all. G.
Last edited by FFR428; Jan 6, 2005 at 05:51 AM.
Needsmorecoffee.
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 3,624
Likes: 2
From: CT
The date code is under the oil filter adapter pad. I think it was 73 when MCC started casting the smaller FE/FT blocks. Look for a 2T,2TA etc... on the 6th or 7th counterweight. Is it a cast iron crank? G.
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