$30k big blocks?

[NSXDRIVER]

I have noted that when discussing costs for FEs, reference is sometimes made to engines costing between $25 and $30k, especially when the Shelby aluminum block is mentioned. I'm curious as to what parts are being used to arrive at these numbers. As a compulsive spender, I just have to figure out how to make the car I ordered even more expensive than it already is

[BT SNAKE]

For that kind of money you could almost build two 358cid NASCAR motors. With one of these, you could whomp on that over priced show piece.

That should get things going on this thread !

Hersh

[Jamo]

They must've gold plated the pistons or something.

I've got the Shelby block, a Velasco crank (nothing cheap about that), Shelby front cover and manifold, worked Eldebrock heads, 6AL, an 850HP, Aviad pan, expensive stuff all through the insides, and it looks like it'll come out around $23-24K, and that's including clutch and an aluminum flywheel, and labor.

Ain't cheap--but cheaper than reports you've gotten.


Hoish--bite me.

[Turk]

If you take Jamo's engine and have an experienced shop build the same, you can see how you could easily hit that mark!

TURK

[Jamo]

You're such a dick sometimes.

I just didn't go for the steak option.

A builder, such as Joe Boghosian right here in Fresno, that has built motors for Andretti (including the 69 Indy winner), numerous AA/Fuel teams, drag boats ("Whiskey River") and has kept Dick Smith happy for over 30+ years building FEs (including a new monster) for the 427 with the best racing record is experienced enough for me.

There are a lot of good builders out there. Folks like George Anderson and Southern Automotive are FE specialists, literally gurus, and you pay a premium for their expertise. The Kirkhams swear by some guy (don't recall the name) who builds motors in Michigan. Shelby will sell you a whole motor. Certainly no two motors are exactly alike due to buyer preference, but the difference between SAI blocks and NOS SO blocks is down to nothing.

My $.02...

[BT SNAKE]

Jamo, the first time you get on it with that motor, you better
put on some Depends. You wouldn't want things to get messy.

Hersh

[Turk]

Hersh,
He doesn't need to dress special for the motor...
Jamo depends on Depends with or without the motor. That is part of his daily routine.He'll be just fine!!

TURK

[Lew Ledyard]

The Kirkhams have recommended Kinetics, but I do not have any contact info. Jamo's figures are about the same for a similar motor built by Southern.

[Chaplin]

Jamo-
Turk actually raises a good idea. That could be an excellent negotiating strategy for you. Lock everyone in a room, say that noone is leaving until you get the concessions you want, serve lots of coffeee, maybe some eggs and taco bell, and then you just sit resolute in the knowledge that you can wait them out forever . . . Increased fees from many happy clients should easily offset the cost of the Depends. You might even be able to write off the cost as a business expense

[KobraKarl]

My 427 cost me a bit more than 30k..........course it came with a car attatched..

[Clois Harlan]

Hey Turk,

I just spoke to George and he tells me you will be picking up your engine on Monday. He also said it is beautiful and a real A$$ Kicker.

Who ever said money couldn't buy you love?

Have fun!

Clois

[terry lee]

Originally posted by BT SNAKE


Jamo, the first time you get on it with that motor, you better
put on some Depends. You wouldn't want things to get messy.

No need for Depends, just big Ba$$s. That will take care of the motor cost and the first time you get on it. Been there, Done that!
TL

[Sizzler]

for what it's worth, 5 years ago I had a firm quote to build a 12.5:1 SOHC with all new Dove parts for $30,000. Questions arose concerning Dove parts, but it wouldv'e been an all aluminum, brand new Cammer for $30K. Quotes received from builder and Dove. Now, 5 years later, in this economy, if Dove was/is? still making the parts, I bet I could get it done for less.

Trouble is, the only 427 blocks around today are NOS, or junk - it seems to me anyway. NEED a 427 block for a cammer, but would require a seasoned block under those heads; no green blocks would live too long.

[REAL 1]

A good 427SO block that passes magna flux and sonic and is not a "service" block will run you $4000 to $5000 easy.

If you use good original heads, original manifold (if you can find this stuff) as opposed to replacement Eldebrock heads or manifold or Blue Thunder manifold things will get even more pricey.

A good original iron block 427SO with "original" stuff and quality parts (ie Harlan Sharp valve train, roller rockers etc, etc..)will run every bit of $20K to $25K. An aluminum block will be in the same range maybe slightly more if you go with Shleby heads and valve train. Expensive but quality stuff.

[Great Asp]

Can we say "dick" on CC?



Great Asp

[Jamo]

Heard my baby's first murmurings today--oh my. Depends worked.

Final number is right at $25K.

Somehow, calling Turk a Richard just doesn't sound right.

[KobraKarl]

As I am fond of telling poeple...................DICK., ...........is my middle name.

[Edley Rondinone]

One of the mechancis here at work collects ALL that FE stuff: blocks, heads, manifolds, anything 427 FE, "R" code Ford stuff. I am trying to wheedle one of his 427 SOHC engines to put in my '57 Fairlane 500. Dont think it will fit in the Cobra (although I HAVE seen an SOHC in a Cobra at an old Ford Power Parts show a few years back)

[KobraKarl]

Edley, saw one in a contemporary two years ago, looked like it fit fairly easily,

Also, the 57 ford coupe was my first car as a kid ......spent a summer putting it together with parts from area junk yards, .........312 tri power ....never really had real power though.....still probably my favorite ford...