fordracer,
Caution: the items below are opinion only! I did build the engine but it hasn't been started yet, so I did bet money on the opinions....
Cam/valve train: The 514 comes with a .647" lift cam and valve train. I was advised that the valve springs needed replacing every other adjustment cycle, or about every 3,000 miles. I switched to a Crane hydraulic roller setup for what I hope will be trouble-free, maintenance free longevity. We'll see, I hope!
Rods: My 514 came with the "truck rods". When we took the new engine apart one rod was visually defective and no doubt would have failed in service taking the rest of the engine with it. After applying a small amount of pressure, Ford replaced them at no charge with the new "Eagle-like" rods, which are standard on the new, increased price
crate motor. These rods are expected to be fine for durability.
Intake: the 514 comes with a tall (6.30") Victor single-plane manifold. I switched to an Edelbrock Performer 460 RPM (5.48" tall). If you need a shorter manifold you can use the Torker II at 3.875" tall, but it is a single plane unit. I elected to increase the height of my scoop to accept the Performer.
Pan: Canton Road race in place of the stock pan. Where was my 10% discount when I needed it???
So the good news is that the engine may be quite durable and I was able, with the help of a very grand engine builder, to sell the removed parts to drag racers to help pay for the changes.
The bad news is that I'm guessing the engine probably lost a hundred HP due to the changes. We'll see.
Regards,
Tom
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