Club Cobra - 427 Lemans block

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427 Lemans block

Does anyone have any information on the 427 Lemans block? Dove Manufacturing says he has the Ford molds for this rare block but I can't find any info on the web.

If these are what you're talking about, I'm pretty sure that the 427 Lemans blocks used in the GT40 MkII tunnel ports had dry decks. The heads got their own plumbing for coolant. I thknk the aluminum TP heads were cast using the iron head molds, and I think there were problems with the heads sealing, as the head decks were too thin using aluminum, so they made them dry decks. I can't remember if there was any other difference. I really don't think there is any advantage in one of these blocks.

I used to think that the early side oiler blocks were the ones to get, the ones with no oil lifter gallery. Although they would be correct for a restoration, the problem with these blocks is that you can pretty much only run solid flat tappet lifters. Obviously, you can't run any hydraulic lifter, and you can't take advantge of the newer solid roller lifters with pressurized oiling to their bearings. I think you'd be better off getting a new Genesis, Pond cast iron side oiler block, or an original service 427 side oiler block that was drilled for hydraulics.

Full Throttle Al Al The Dove company has been saying alot of bull for the last 15 years. Ever since the FLOODS there thing was lost or found 5 miles away and is no good. There are 4 companys maken blocks with extra webbing inside, the Ponds is the closest to the orginial block with the genisis block right behind it. For MAX strenght the Shelby block is the strongest but is not an SOmotor. You have a SOHC what are you looking FOR??:confused: Like tony said I would check with the GT-40 club or the FE forum. You will find the smartest in either. I would guess Rick Kirk might know918-372-4537, and ask them if he has any SOHC motors left:) Heard there are 2 or 3 still in the crate from 67 Rick Lake

Full Throttle Al - How'd you get that engine in there? Seriously, what's your curb weight, front/rear weight percentages? Gorgeous engine.

Bill

I don't have the weights. Getting the engine in was a bit of work. Foot boxes had to be notched about 6 inches to fit the heads. Pedals had to be moved over slightly and the steering moved also with 2 more joints to clear the headers. The car is a handful to drive but always gets a lot of attention when the hood is up.

Some old timers know just from the sound it is a cammer.

My understanding of the 427 blocks used at Leman is that they were high nickle content units which had the tightest tolerances. I know they were dry sump, but aside from some plumbing were the same blocks used by HM and Shelby.

Al, try a search on www.fordfe.com There is some info on there including some about a handfull of 427 aluminum blocks that were made. You might find something. BTW your Cobra is the ultimate dream ride for me with that cammer!!! I still have a mag that featured your car a few years back I think. Very Nice. G.