Ford 429 Thunder Jet

[colvinbh]

I have an opportunity to purchase a Ford 429 Thunder Jet Big Block Complete Engine that is in running condition. I have a Contempory Classic which currently has a 351 Cleveland. Thinking of upgrading to a big block, would this be an engine that is worth building?

[mdross1]

Certainly an engine worth building considering it is running now, it will not be a direct bolt in.A lot of Cobra's running around with the 385 series big block 429/460.These engines make big hp and tq built correctly.

[olddog]

Talk to some people who have done it with your manufacturer's car. The 385 series is a big engine. Everyone I have seen in a Cobra has looked like it took a big shoe horn to squeeze it in.

[Tom Wells]

Here are some Ford family engine dimensions. Draw your own conclusions

http://mustangsandmore.com/ubb/EngineDimensions.html

[jhv48]

Wow, two hundred pounds heavier than a 351w?

That fact alone would help me choose a small block.

Doesn't the added weight on the front end screw with the handling somewhat?

[Rick Parker]

They are also vertically challenged when it comes time to choose a good intake manifold and air filter combo.

[mdross1]

Aluminum heads alone will take 40 lbs off the weight.Then there are the intake manifold and water pump that could be changed out to aluminum.The big blocks only issue in these cars is the torque hit especially in cornering.All that I have read from the pro's who used to race these cars all the time was there is no real difference in handling between the two motors.
Our 460 car has a weight bias f to r 47-53.Once we had it scaled it was like being on rails driving this hot rod.Road racing these cars with stickies all around really taxes your staying planted in the seat even with 5 point harness.Really should have two seats one for street and one for road racing.
Do not be afraid of stepping up to a big block.After all the years we have owned our car opening the hood always makes me smile.