Is a 352 FE a big block or big block?
Yes. The 352 FE is a Ford FE big-block V8, part of Ford's FE engine family.
The Ford FE family was introduced in 1958 as Ford's larger-displacement V8 lineup to power full-size cars and, later, performance applications. The 352 cubic inch version is one of several displacement variants within the FE family. In practical terms, the 352 FE is a big-block engine, not a small-block.
Defining the FE big-block family
To understand what distinguishes a big-block from a small-block in Ford's lineup, here are the key characteristics that set the FE apart.
- Block size and architecture: FE engines use a larger casting and overall block height and width compared with Ford's small-block family.
- Displacement range: The FE family includes 332/352/360/390/427/428, all within a larger block design.
- Lubrication and oiling design: FE engines used heavier-duty oiling and cooling layouts to handle higher performance demands.
- Front-end and mounting: The FE has different bellhousing patterns and transmission interfaces compared to small-block engines, reflecting its heavier design.
Conclusion: The FE designation itself identifies the family as a big-block line, and the 352 variant sits within that category.
Historical context and typical applications
During its production run in the late 1950s and early 1960s, the 352 FE powered Ford's larger cars and some Mercury models, offering more torque for cruising and heavy-duty tasks than Ford's smaller V8s of the era. It was part of Ford's strategy to field a robust, displacement-driven lineup that could handle the demands of full-size cars, with later evolution including the 427 and 428 side‑oil engines in the FE family.
Notable traits when identifying a 352 FE
Use these cues to confirm you're looking at an FE big-block:
- Large, heavy engine block with the FE family badge or stamping
- Distinctive valve covers and intake/C4 patterns typical of FE engines
- Engagement with a heavy-duty transmission and larger bellhousing compatibility
Conclusion: If the engine is from the FE family and displaced around 352 cubic inches, it is a big-block by Ford's classification.
Summary
In Ford's taxonomy, the 352 FE is definitively a big-block engine. The FE family was built to deliver more torque and durability than the small-block lineup, and the 352 variant sits within that larger-block family. Whether you're restoring a late-1950s Ford or evaluating a used engine, the key identifiers are the FE block family, the larger overall size, and the displacement figure that places the engine in the big-block category.
Was the 352 Ford engine a good engine?
Yes, the Ford 352 is generally considered a good, reliable, and strong engine, especially as a member of the versatile Ford FE family. It is a durable and capable engine that can be modified for high performance, with many parts interchangeable with other FE engines like the 390.
Strengths of the 352 engine
- Reliable and durable: The 352 is known for being a resilient engine with good longevity, capable of handling heavy-duty work.
- Strong torque: As a member of the FE series, it is a good torque producer, making it suitable for trucks and other applications that require pulling power.
- Versatile platform: It's part of the FE engine family, meaning it can accept parts and upgrades from other FE engines, allowing for extensive modifications to increase horsepower.
- High-performance potential: With the right modifications, such as a four-barrel carburetor, headers, and a different camshaft, the 352 can be built to produce over 300 horsepower.
- Historical performance: The 352 was originally offered in performance applications like police interceptors, and a high-performance version was available with a solid lifter camshaft and higher compression, notes Wikipedia.
Potential considerations
- Weight: The 352 is a heavy engine, weighing around 650-680 pounds, which can be a factor in some builds, says Facebook.
- Fuel efficiency: Like many large, older V8 engines, it is not known for its fuel efficiency.
- Identification: In some cases, identifying a 352 can be difficult because the block casting number is often stamped on other FE engines as well, explains Red Power Magazine.
Is a Ford 352 a big block or small block?
Its in the 289, 304 series. Mike Irving No it was considered a small block. Actually the 351M is a small block. 352 FE engines and up were later called big blocks.
Is a Ford 351 a big block or small block?
Josh Sensmeyer Ford's 351 Cleveland is NOT a big block! It's a 365 series small block. The Ford 429 and 460 were both 385 series small blocks also.
What is a 352 FE?
352 FE V8 in a 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 XL. Introduced in 1958 as part of the Interceptor line of Ford V8 engines, the Ford 352 of 351.86 cu in (5.77 L) actual displacement was the replacement for the Lincoln Y-block.
