southern automotive

[clemson61]

Has anyone had engine work done by southern automotive in Atlanta? I am looking at having them rebuild my 427. Are they good, bad, ok. Would anyone recommend their shop? Thanks for the help.

[ToyCollector]

I was there for 4 hours today watching Lewis (master engine builder) assemble the short block+ of a 427 side oiler. An absolute craftsmen. I owned Bill Parham's former Cobra which obviosuly had his motor in it. It was HEALTHY and I still love the car. No problems. I now have commissioned two more motors from him. Customer service and perfection are the motto of this outfit. Sit tight, you will get a ton more responses like this. Or, just order a motor, you won't regret it!

[misfit41]

does southern do new builds as well,,do you know if they keep any built motors on hand ? I have a friend looking for a good 427,,but just wants cash and carry
Tk

[BB427]

I met Bill Parnham at Unique's open house last year. I was impressed with his knowledge of the FE. Most really good engine builders specialize in a specific style of engine, stick to it,and let their reputation build the business.

[Cal Metal]

Never having owned an FE from Southern, Unique uses them for their FE cars. One thing I do know is that they stand behind their engines. Any problems are corrected. I have seen, on more than one occasion, where the owner was at fault for an engine problem. Southern stood solidly behind it and fixed the problem. They really didn't have a duty to so, either. The owner/driver made the screw up.

[excelguru]

I'm very happy with his work and his service.

Bill has the largest private collection of Ford FE parts in the nation (and possibly the world). To say that his knowledge of FE engines is "vast" would be an understatement. The same goes for Lewis, the chief mechanic. Customer service is 2nd to none. Quality is exceptional.

He won't sell parts, but will only build complete engines. I'm pretty sure he doesn't keep spare completed engines around because there are usually several anxious owners on a waiting list (this alone is a testament to his engines).

Like Mike said, just sit tight and you'll see several more responses like this one.

Keith

[GeorgiaSnake]

Not only does Southern build good motors Bill is a real hoot. A throwback to the drag racing days I miss. He is the master of FE's in this part of the country and built my 396 stroker sb. I should also metion Susan - she can sell eskimos ice cubes and Lewis has great knowledge, skill and enough patience to put up with chill.

Randy

[patrija]

You're making a SOLID decision by including Southern Automotive in your list of who to consider for rebuild, and you'll make the BEST decision when you get it crated up or even better, make the drive to McDonough and cast any doubts aside. No jokes, the Parhams and crew are the best in the business and yes, you too can become one of the "family".

[Bumpster]

I'm having a 351W built locally for my Hunter FIA. My engine builder told me that if I wanted an FE engine, he would send me to Bill at Southern Automotive. He said no one builds a better Ford FE engine than Southern Automotive.

Bumpster

[Hal Copple]

I have met Bill, and he is indeed a fine Southern Gentleman, and a man of his word. His stories are great to listen too. From everything i hear, his engines are fine.

When i was up at at the Holman Moody shop in charlotte a year ago, picking up some minor items for my SPF, and got the "tour", he showed me some original race NASCAR 427 engines his shop built years ago, sealed up.

I did not embarass myself by asking what they cost, but if you want an original Ford NASCAR 427 motor, new, they are available.

He puts them in his half-million dollar GT 40 Mk II's, that are identical to the race ones of so long ago.

hal

[Alex Donghi]

You'll get a great motor from Bill and even greater service. He loves this. I think youll have to wait. Most of the completed engines I've seen have sold stickers on them.

[Chaplin]

I just just took delivery of a motor from SA. The people at SA were great to deal with. I have not installed the motor in the car yet, but if it runs as good as it looks, I will be in good shape (and the neighbors won't be too happy with me. )