Upcoming FE build: plan coming together

[patrickt]

Originally Posted by lemans24

if you do webers, make sure you use the right cam and install O2 bungs in the exhaust collectors.

That's a smart idea. AKS801 - If you're running Webers then you're likely thinking about revving your engine a little higher than the average FE build. You might want to open the "should I install a solid cam" can o' worms. FWIW, I went with a shorter stroke (4.125) on my build and the bore just .025 over. Along with an aluminum flywheel, the solid flat tappet lets it rev past six grand without blinking an eye. Others will tell you that a solid flat tappet is just a PITA, so you'll have to weed through the BS and decide for yourself.

[aks801]

Ah-yee... so much to consider!

Maybe I should just pick up a used Hyundai Tiburon, slap some nitrous to it, and be happy.

Nah!!!!!!!!!

[Gunner]

Originally Posted by aks801

Maybe I should just pick up a used Hyundai Tiburon, slap some nitrous to it, and be happy.

When I was done with my Mustang (it's at the build-a-kit stage, all parts present and accounted for, some assembly required) I realized I could have walked into a Subaru dealership and driven out in a WRX STi for a little less.

Yeah, riiiiighhht.

[patrickt]

I think a 390 is probably just as good as a 428 in most of our cars. By the time you stroke and bore them, neither one is what it was anyway. Just try and find one of the later 390 blocks that have the extra webbing on the crank saddle -- some have it, some don't. I'm thinking (now don't quote me) that all 390/428 blocks were getting that around 1971 or so (service blocks), ribs on the outside too, at least on the 428s. On the earlier 428 blocks you couldn't always rely on the scratch marks on the back of the block, you actually have to look at the bottom end with your own two eyes.

[Gunner]

Originally Posted by patrickt

I think a 390 is probably just as good as a 428 in most of our cars.

Barring the resale issue. You could build a fabulous motor around a 390 block, better than most FEs around... but convincing a buyer it's "as good" will be an uphill battle when he's looking at 428 and 427 cars.

Does it make sense? No. Is a 390 in any other way a bad choice? No.

Builder's choice... pays yer money and takes yer chance. You could, of course, lie at resale time... :P

[patrickt]

If memory serves, Sal put a 390 in his beeaauutifully done CSX car, that unfortunately he had to sell just recently.

[PJ4myboo]

Just some food for thought......We bought a 360 FE out of a '72 truck that was complete from carb to the oil pan for $100. My sons had a load of fun tearing it apart and now the block is at the machine shop waiting for the 390 internals. It should make a nice 428 look alike with more than enough power when we are done.

By the way, I love the weber idea.....love that look!!!

Pete