352 into a 390
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Junior User
Joined: Jun 2003
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From: Boise
352 into a 390
Couldn’t a guy bore a 352 from 4.00” to 4.05”, install a 390 crank and rods and have a 390? The reason I ask is that I have a 1961 Starliner that my Dad and I want to put a 390 in. I have a couple of 352 engines, one of which is the original engine from the Starliner. Dad knows a mechanic who tells him you can’t make a 352 into a 390. I think he said something gets in the way of the rods or some such thing, so the block would require extensive machine work. Anyone know for sure? (I’m surprised that I can’t seem to find this information here already.)
Elder User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 909
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From: San Luis Obispo, CA
OK, I have done exactly what you describe. This info is hidden away in a number of threads, but searching sometimes gives you too many choices to wade through.
Ask your mechanic why most all regular 390 blocks have a "352" cast into the left-front of the block. There are some cases of stroker cranks where there is block to rod interference, but this is not one of them.
Most 352's should have no problem with an .050 overbore unless you are unlucky enough to get one with a core-shift or a flaw in the cast iron. Don't get mixed up - you want STD 390 pistons, NOT .050. Good luck.
If there is anyone with an exception to this, please post it so we will all know.
What heads are you going to use?
Ask your mechanic why most all regular 390 blocks have a "352" cast into the left-front of the block. There are some cases of stroker cranks where there is block to rod interference, but this is not one of them.
Most 352's should have no problem with an .050 overbore unless you are unlucky enough to get one with a core-shift or a flaw in the cast iron. Don't get mixed up - you want STD 390 pistons, NOT .050. Good luck.
If there is anyone with an exception to this, please post it so we will all know.
What heads are you going to use?
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 2,574
Likes: 4
From: Golden, CO
Hmm...That's a new one on me. I never heard of clearance problems in the 352 block. Maybe it's specific to the early block? A later FE block will work in the earlier car. It's the other stuff like flywheels, starters, and timing covers that have subtle differences. And yes, a 390 crank-set will fit a 352 block.
Anyways I wouldn't touch the original engine. From what I've seen, if someone wants numbers matching, it can turn into real money.
Sounds like you and your Dad are out for some fun. Let-er-rip!
Anyways I wouldn't touch the original engine. From what I've seen, if someone wants numbers matching, it can turn into real money.
Sounds like you and your Dad are out for some fun. Let-er-rip!
Elder User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 909
Likes: 9
From: San Luis Obispo, CA
If anyone NEEDS a numbers matching engine out of a '65 F-100, let me know. I gave it to the new owner (local) of my '65 as a spare to the 390 I built for it, but I'd bet he would let it go for a reasonable offer. This engine has been apart, but only for a valve & ring job, so I doubt it has had much machining on anything but the valve seats.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 8,600
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From: Iowa
A 352 turns into a 390 with a .050" overbore, 390 crank, 390 rods, and 390 (standard size) pistons. That's all it takes. Although the thrust bearing got larger at some point, and you cant install the later bearing on the earlier block. I'm not sure if it was before or after 1961 though. So watch that when ordering bearings.
Senior User
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I know this a dead post but i was looking for header info and found it. What is a number matched 352?
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Post Fiend
Joined: Mar 2004
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From: Union, Washington
Originally Posted by FE352
I know this a dead post but i was looking for header info and found it. What is a number matched 352?
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So, does that make the engine more desirable? Cause the 352 in my truck is only 55,000 miles old, and it is has all the orginal stickers, including the one on the air filter. I was contemplating replacing intake, carp, cam, and valve covers, but if it will devaule it signifcantly i guess i wont.
Needsmorecoffee.
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 3,624
Likes: 2
From: CT
If you do replace those items just keep the original parts. If you were to ever sell it some prefer to have the original parts. It's pretty rare to find and original 55k engine still untouched. Most have been rebuilt a few times by now. It would add some value being all original.
Senior User
Joined: Jun 2006
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when you say rebuilt, i assume you mean the whole engine... cause im thinking about rebuilding the carp because it leaks a little fuel onto the manifold, nothing huge or anything though.
Well thats interesting enough. I wouldnt dream of selling this truck, its was my great grampas. He costum ordered it with the locking spicer 60, and all the bells and whistles.. anyway, thanks for the info.
Brandon
Well thats interesting enough. I wouldnt dream of selling this truck, its was my great grampas. He costum ordered it with the locking spicer 60, and all the bells and whistles.. anyway, thanks for the info.
Brandon
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