Club Cobra - New alloy 427 FE build.. call me crazy

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- - New alloy 427 FE build.. call me crazy (http://www.clubcobra.com/forums/fe-talk/138702-new-alloy-427-fe-build-call-me-crazy.html)

I did want to comment on those who said these aluminum blocks need a lot of work (cost/time) to get them right and that is one of the reasons they did not like doing them.
I see their point. The Pond block did require a lot of attention and multiple check for fit steps. This equates to time and that means money.
So for those who think it is just bolting on new parts, that is not how it goes.

I am thankful my machinist took the time and attention to detail. I could not imagine building such a thing with out, pressure testing, heat cycling, test fitting, dyno runs and other checks that are to numerous to mention. All I can say, is the block took a lot of machining.

I feel good with my decision, I did not pick aluminum block for bling or bragging rights, I did it because I did wanted all new components. Thanks to this forum and heading warnings of those who have gone before gave me things to watch for, I know it wasn't just thrown together.

It is awaiting install into the car and only putting on miles to see if all is well.

Quote:

Originally Posted by FUNFER2 (Post 1425375)

Brent, I've heard that FE's are harder to select a proper cam, without giving your secret's, please explain that situation and what is best to get it right.

Quote:

Originally Posted by blykins (Post 1425542)

No thanks.

Quote:

Originally Posted by cycleguy55 (Post 1426582)

Interpretation / conclusion: Brent has grown tired of FUNFER2's endless questions (with no apparent end in sight) under the guise of 'research'.
.

Quote:

Originally Posted by rodneym (Post 1426594)

While I'm sure Brent is (or can be) tired of tire kickers, my take away was that he didn't want to invite all the online "experts" who might have something to say about his expertise.

Answering that question could be begging for attention from the peanut gallery.

The operation of an internal combustion engine is 100% science (the laws of physics regulate everything that takes place inside there)....

However- Building engines (especially high performance engines) requires the skill of a studied and experienced artist, not a lab-coat wearing Poindexter-

If you were to spend $500 in a luxury restaurant, eating the finest gourmet meal you have ever tasted, it would show extremely poor taste too:

1) Ask the chef for his recipes.
2) Assume that your could EVER take those recipes home, and re-create that same meal all over again.

There is a matter of etiquette at play in both the novice's original question, and the master's well-reasoned response... I get where Brent is coming from ;)

Brent talks with experience that is for sure. He stated that extra work takes extra time/ money. I was willing to pay to get it right. I took all his warnings to heart and it gave us things to watch for. Therefore I did not have surprises and was willing to pay/spend the time to check and recheck.

Brent and my Bud (my builder) had more than one conversation as did I with him. Some parts were obtained from him as well. I thank them both.

So I am saying, that his warnings are well founded and if a customer expected a firm price to build such a motor, the builder could take it in the shorts. I could see where someone going in blind could think the reputable builder is taking advantage of him by upping the price, due to more work needing done to a new part.

Now it still has to run 100,000 trouble free, fire breathing miles for all to pay off !!!!!

I just wanted to do an update. Yesterday was the first drive with the new engine. I am taking it easy during break-in. Obviously power was there. I think I have some carburetor work to do because there is a hesitation.
Idle is choppy but no problem with the power brakes. I did the 5 speed with 0.64 5th and it cruises nicely at 65 - 75 mph / 1900 - 2100 rpm, and will still accelerate smartly