390 FE Edelbrock Power Package

[120mm]

Originally Posted by cycleguy55

If I had "a complete unrebuilt 390 and a couple 352s" the decision would be easy - forget the SBF and build the Cobra around the FE. You could always do a basic rebuild / refresh on any of those and use them for a while "as is" and I'm sure they'd provide plenty of thrills. If you decide you want more you can always install a stroker kit later and build yourself something bigger / better / faster - now or later.

I need to examine the FEs I have. I'm pretty sure the cars they came in were completely played out before the went to the grove. But you definitely make me want to favor the FE.

Originally Posted by Tom Cimino

Use the 390 block and stroke it. You can get 431 ci from a 4.125 stroke, or 445 from a 4.25 stroke (That's with a ,030 cleanup bore). Or, if you want 427 ci, you can use your 352 block, bore it .060 and stroke it to 4.125. The good side is you will get a new crankshaft and way better than stock rods. Also get a copy of Barry Rabotnic's "How to build Max-performance Ford FE Engines. There's a wealth of information in there.

I have a year to gather parts and study up on FEs, so will do so. I purchased the Rabotnic's book online and will be able to read it on my computer.

I'm not hung up on the displacement number. But it's kind of cool that Dad/Grandpa's old sedan engine might be turned into something fire breathing, in a Cobra replica. It has a certain humor that is appealing.