Wes,
I'm also trying to decide what combination of parts to use. I'm thinking a block like yours with a 428 crank would make a real monster.
Mike

 

It would make a BEAST out of the thing! If I had another 428 crank right now the second one that we build would be a stroker LOL

Wes Adams

 

Before you cut that block, find out what they are selling for. Granted, it's not a new Shelby block, but for the go-real-fast crowd it has the more desireable features in a Ford casting:

Reinforcing webs cast to the outside.
"Crows feet" reinforcement cast into the main webs.
More iron between the crank and cam (main webs again).
Thicker cylinder cores.
STEEL crank, forged IIRC.

After all, you can wet sleeve one of the other blocks you have and be perfectly content.

Just my .02, Mike

 

We are using a D4TE Block! Its really beefy. We are using a 2U crank (390) and stock 390 rod's for our project. "The Poor Mans 427" is based off of stuff that you would have in your shop that you are not using. Hint the name "The Poor Mans 427" LOL

Wes Adams

 

Wes,
I understand using stuff laying in the garage....That's what I'm trying to use. I have a longblock 360, 390, and 391....The only thing I don't have is the 428 crank. However...if the 428 crank is the only part I have to buy other than mandatory parts like pistons and gaskets, that will be ok by me.
Mike

 

I see it now... You want a boatload of torque, and have plenty of cubic dollars. Very good.

Now to answer some questions:
Jowilker: My motor is the all-too-standard 390 build with the 343941 cam, TRW pistons, about 9.7:1 compression, ported stock C7AE-A heads, adjustable valvetrain, Edelbrock Performer RPM intake, and headers. The big thing, as far as mileage is concerned, is the 700cfm Holley Commander 950 electronic fuel injection system. I'm also running a Mallory Unilite distrbutor, which is curved for the motor. With a very light foot, on a trip, at 55mph, with no wind, it got 17mpg. Like I said, around town it goes down fairly quickly to 10mpg, since I'm getting into the power a little more. If I'm real nice to it around town it'll get 12mpg.

I dont really want to know how much I've spent on it, to be honest with you. I didn't keep records or anything. But the above description should give you some idea. On the mileage issue with the 428 crank, you've got more friction from increased piston travel, and you've got more piston speed, than you would with the 390 crank. Plus, bigger motors usually get worse mileage than smaller ones.

Doc, if you like spending money, we can accomodate. I may have gotten to specific with my previous recommendations. How about...

1. FT block re-sleeved to 427 size
2. 428 crank
3. about 9.25:1 pistons (You'll have to see what's available)
4. 360/390 heads, ported
5. 343901 cam
6. 600cfm vacuum secondary carb on a stock 4 barrel intake
7. headers

That should get you 496ft-lbs @ 2500rpm, and 373hp @ 4500rpm, according to the desktop dyno.

Or if you're buying a crank anyway, why not get a 4.25" stroker crank? That'd get you 477.8 cubic inches of displacement. With everything the same from above, you'd have 531ft-lbs @ 2000rpm, and 371hp @ 4500rpm.

Then there's other possibilites, like edelbrock heads, bigger valves, and other things. It's all about priorities.

 

Hey Wes your getting famous! Your "poor mans 427" has even been discussed on a few of the cobra forums. We are all pullin for ya on that! I've been watching your progress on the net54 forum. This is one cool engine build. Wish you all the best and hope it turns out a screamer! G.

 

Thanks FFR428,
Its nice to have people to be behind you weather it works or not! I hope that it dose work out for all the right reasons. I never thought that this would have been such a big deal or word of mouth getting this far. I guess in a way that I would be Famous LOL.

Wes Adams

 

Wes Adams,
I realy believe it will work. There's one thing for sure....when you do get it together and prove that it works, you will not be able to build those things fast enough. LOL! I think any web site that has anything to do with older Fords or engines has heard about your build already. You have a lot of people sitting on the edge of their seat.
Mike Adams

 

MIke,
I had no idea that many people are watching what I'm doing! I was doing it for fun/education/& to put some engine Voodo to rest is all. WOW! I'm going to have to take a look at some of the web sites and see if I can find it. Thanks
Wes Adams

 

Wes,
It almost looks like the whole world is watching you at this point. LOL! You are most definately getting famous. If it actualy holds together, anyone who messes with Ford motors at all will know your name. I'm going to beam you an email on where to look for people talking.
Mike

 

Mike (AKA Doc),
Thanks for the email and your support on this whole thing. If it wasn't for people like yourself I wouldn't be doing this project! Thanks Mike and I will keep everyone posted on this project. Take care,

Wes Adams

 

Wes, this is definately interesting. Keep us up to date!

I thought I heard of a new block with a 4.375" bore. I wonder if an FE / FT block could be sleeved up to that size?

 

Hey Rusty 70 f100 where do you get that desktop dyno thing, if you don't mind email me at cbpalmer@hemc.net

 

Check your PM.