What size big blocks did Ford make?
Ford has a rich history of producing powerful big block engines that have become iconic in the automotive world. These engines are known for their impressive performance and have been used in a variety of vehicles, from muscle cars to trucks. In this article, we will explore the different sizes of big block engines that Ford manufactured, their specifications, and their significance in automotive history.
What is a Big Block Engine?
A big block engine is characterized by its larger displacement compared to small block engines. This larger size allows for more power and torque, making them ideal for high-performance applications. Ford's big block engines have been a staple in their lineup, particularly during the muscle car era of the 1960s and 1970s.
Sizes of Ford Big Block Engines
Ford produced several big block engine sizes over the years, each with its own unique features and applications. Here are the primary sizes:
- 332 cubic inches (5.4 liters) - Introduced in 1958, this was one of Ford's first big block engines.
- 352 cubic inches (5.8 liters) - Launched in 1958, it was used in various Ford models, including the Thunderbird.
- 360 cubic inches (5.9 liters) - This engine was popular in trucks and vans during the 1970s.
- 390 cubic inches (6.4 liters) - Known for its use in the Ford Mustang and other performance vehicles.
- 427 cubic inches (7.0 liters) - Famous for its racing pedigree, particularly in the Ford GT40.
- 428 cubic inches (7.0 liters) - This engine was known as the "Thunder Jet" and was used in high-performance models like the Cobra.
- 460 cubic inches (7.5 liters) - A heavy-duty engine primarily used in trucks and larger vehicles.
Each of these engines played a significant role in Ford's performance legacy, contributing to the brand's reputation for power and reliability.
Conclusion
Ford's big block engines have left an indelible mark on the automotive industry, showcasing the brand's commitment to performance and innovation. From the early 332 cubic inch engine to the robust 460 cubic inch variant, these engines have powered some of the most memorable vehicles in automotive history. Understanding these sizes not only highlights Ford's engineering prowess but also enriches the appreciation for classic and modern vehicles alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Ford make a 427 big block?
The Ford single overhead cam (SOHC) 427 V8 engine, familiarly known as the "Cammer", was released in 1964 in an effort to maintain NASCAR dominance by seeking to counter the enormously large block Chrysler 426 Hemi "elephant" engine. The Ford 427 block was closer dimensionally to the smaller 392 cu. in.
How much horsepower can you get out of a Ford 427?
Ford had 427s that carried 390 hp, 410 hp, and 425 hp ratings regardless of what the actual output was, which varied according to which cylinder heads, intake manifolds, cams, and compression ratios were employed, and some could really make 485 hp or 520 hp.
How much horsepower does a Ford 514 stroker have?
514 hp Ford Stroker - Tech
| TEST 1 | TEST 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| RPM | TQ | HP |
| 3,600 | 426 | 292 |
| 3,800 | 426 | 311 |
| 4,000 | 424 | 324 |
What big blocks did Ford make?
The big block is a name that is used for the FE and 385 series both. The 385's are the 429 and 460ci motors. The 429 started in model year 1968 and was used in cars until 70/71. It had a bore/stroke of 4.36X3.
What is the biggest V8 Ford ever made?
And a whopping 481 lb feet of torque. Numbers tailored for moving colossal loads rather than street racing.
Are 429 and 460 the same block?
The nice thing about this block is interchangeability. It can be a 429 or a 460 depending on which crankshaft is used. What's more, it can be stroked to more than 550ci. Boss 429 blocks were unique "C9AE-E" castings with screw-in freeze plugs and four-bolt main caps.
What is the difference between a 406 and a 427 Ford?
Though mid-year 406s and all 427s were cross-bolted main blocks, both were different castings entirely. In fact, the 427 block is a completely different animal because it sports huge 4.23-inch bores, unlike any of its FE siblings, using the 390 and 406's 3.78-inch stroke.
Did Ford make a 400 big block?
The 400 was intended as a replacement for Ford's aging big-block designs. The block's architecture borrowed heavily from the Cleveland, including the bore spacing, but 1.09 inches of additional deck height were added to allow a 4.00-inch stroke and the potential for plenty of torque.
Did Ford make a 572 big block?
This particular 572ci beast walked away with both the Horsepower King and the Torque Monster awards at the 2013 AMSOIL Engine Masters Challenge (EMC) with peaks of 870 hp at 6,400 rpm and 816 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm, so the Ford big-block obviously has massive potential.
How much horsepower did the Ford 406 have?
385 hp
There were 3 variations. Single 4 barrel, 11.4 to 1 compression, 385 hp.
