Since the search isn't working right now i thought i would ask.
When you guys talk about switching over the 360 to a 390 are you talking about the pushrods or the pistons?

 

360 to 390 requires switching the crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons from the 390 to the 360.

Start here:

Howstuffworks "Basic Engine Parts"

Check the library etc...

 

I had the switch from 360 to 390 done on my '70 last year. As 85e mentioned, it is swapping parts, not changing the bore. You may also look at going to a 4bbl carb and intake and headers... but that is my preference.

 

Oh good, a recent switch. Is it true that your now 390 has gobs more power but uses the same amount of gas as it did as a 360?

(which is what is said here all the time...or so it seems.)

Just a bit worried about the op due to the pushrod/piston question...

thanks

 

85e, everytime my stepdad hears that i am going to anything to my truck or motor he just yells about buying something else. the push rod question is his.

 

I got a good bit more power after upgrading to 390. I drove it for a while with a Holley 500 cfm 2bbl, Sanderson headers and dual exhaust on the 390. After 6 months, I upgraded to a Edelbrock Performer intake and 650 cfm 4 bbl carb. I know it isn't that great of an intake, but I am not racing the truck. Once I did that, the engine really woke up because it could breathe well. As for fuel mileage, it got about 10 mpg before the rebuild and the same after. After I put the new carb on it now gets 11 consistently if I do not kick it in to the secondaries too much.

Here is a photo of it before installing it:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gal...158024&width=0

Here is a photo of the engine with the 2bbl on it.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gal...162869&width=0

Here is a photo of it with the new carb and intake.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gal...172170&width=0

As for the pushrod and hydraulic lifter issue, you have a right to be concerned. The first cam in my engine went bad after 1800 miles post rebuild and parts of the lifters were all over inside the engine. After a PIA to get the engine torn apart, cleaned and redone again, it has been a decent engine. I am not really happy with the rebuilder since I think he didn't do the greatest job though. The second time through, I added the zinc break-in additive for the first three or four oil changes and used Rotella Diesel Oil during that time. I will continue to use the Rotella for a while.