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What size is a Ford big block?

Ford's big block engines are known for their impressive size and power. These engines, which were produced from the 1960s through the 1990s, are characterized by their large displacement and robust construction. The size of a Ford big block engine can vary depending on the specific model, but they generally fall within a range of 390 to 460 cubic inches (6.4 to 7.5 liters).


What is a Ford Big Block Engine?


A Ford big block engine is a type of V8 engine that was produced by the Ford Motor Company. These engines were designed to provide high levels of power and torque, making them popular choices for use in large vehicles such as trucks, vans, and high-performance cars. The "big block" designation refers to the engine's large displacement, which is achieved through a larger cylinder bore and longer stroke compared to smaller "small block" engines.


Typical Ford Big Block Engine Sizes


The most common Ford big block engine sizes are:



  • 390 cubic inches (6.4 liters): This was one of the earliest and most popular big block engines, produced from 1961 to 1976. It was used in a variety of Ford and Mercury models, including the Mustang, Thunderbird, and Galaxie.

  • 429 cubic inches (7.0 liters): Introduced in 1968, the 429 big block was a powerful engine used in high-performance Ford models like the Mustang Boss 429 and Torino Cobra.

  • 460 cubic inches (7.5 liters): The largest of the Ford big block engines, the 460 was produced from 1968 to 1978. It was used in a range of Ford and Lincoln vehicles, including the Thunderbird, Lincoln Continental, and Ford F-Series trucks.


While these are the most common Ford big block engine sizes, there were also some other variants, such as the 400 cubic inch (6.6 liter) and 370 cubic inch (6.1 liter) engines, that were produced in smaller quantities.


Factors Affecting Big Block Engine Size


The size of a Ford big block engine is primarily determined by the cylinder bore diameter and the stroke length of the crankshaft. Larger bore sizes and longer stroke lengths result in a higher overall displacement. Additionally, the specific engine model and year of production can also influence the exact size of the big block engine.


Ford's big block engines were known for their impressive power and torque output, making them popular choices for high-performance and heavy-duty applications. Their large size and robust construction allowed them to handle significant amounts of power, making them a favorite among enthusiasts and builders alike.

Is a 427 a big block Ford?


A History Of The Ford 427 Big Block V8 That Changed Blue Oval Motorsports Forever. Ford's most famous big block engine of all time had only a modest impact on the street drag wars that dominated the 1960s muscle car scene.



What Ford engines are considered a big block?


If you have a heavy vehicle and need some serious raw power to get it moving, then one of these series of engines is a good choice. 352, 360, 390, 427, 428 – Classified as “FE” series big blocks, FE stands for Ford Edsel.



Is a Ford 400 modified a big block?


One oddity of the 400 is that, although it is technically a small-block, the transmission side of its bellhousing mimics the 429 and 460 big-blocks. It also uses the same motor mounts as a 429 and 460.



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.



How much HP does a 572 big block make?


The horsepower output of a 572 Big Block crate motor can vary depending on the specific configuration and modifications made to the engine by the manufacturer offering it. However, generally speaking, a 572 Big Block crate engine can produce between 620 to 750 horsepower and 645 to 710 lb-ft of torque.



Is a Ford 6.2 LA big-block?


In the 6.2, that translates into a 4.02-inch bore. We've come to think of the 6.2-liter as a big-block modular. Of course, the only modular architecture making it through to the 6.2 is the bellhousing bolt pattern.



How much horsepower did the Ford 406 have?


385 hp
There were 3 variations. Single 4 barrel, 11.4 to 1 compression, 385 hp.



What is a 572 big block Ford?


572 CUBIC INCH 655 HP BIG BLOCK CRATE ENGINE
This 572 cubic inch big block crate engine makes impressive power with excellent driveability while utilising premium, unleaded pump fuel. 655 Horsepower @ 5500 rpm 710 lb. -ft. torque @ 4500 rpm Engine type: 385 Series 'Big Block' Displacement 572...



What is the difference between a 428 and a 429?


The 429 was Ford's state-of-the-art replacement for the FE-based 428, a design that had been around since 1958. Debuting as a passenger-car engine in '68, the 429 had a skirtless block, like the small-block 289s and 302s, and canted-valve heads, similar to the 351 Cleveland, for improved breathing.



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.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.