What were the engine specs of the Ford 292 in 1955?
The Ford 292 engine, introduced in 1955, was part of Ford's Y-block V8 engine family. Known for its durability and performance, the 292 became a popular choice for Ford vehicles during the mid-20th century. In this article, we’ll dive into the key specifications of this iconic engine and what made it stand out in its time.
Key Specifications of the 1955 Ford 292 Engine
The Ford 292 was designed to deliver a balance of power and reliability, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Here are the main specifications of the 1955 Ford 292 engine:
- Engine Type: V8, part of the Y-block family.
- Displacement: 292 cubic inches (4.8 liters).
- Bore and Stroke: 3.75 inches x 3.30 inches.
- Compression Ratio: 8.5:1, providing a good balance of power and efficiency for the era.
- Horsepower: Rated at 193 horsepower at 4,400 RPM.
- Torque: Delivered 280 lb-ft of torque at 2,200 RPM, offering strong low-end performance.
- Fuel System: Equipped with a 4-barrel carburetor for improved fuel delivery and performance.
- Valvetrain: Overhead valve (OHV) design with solid lifters, contributing to its robust performance.
Applications of the Ford 292 Engine
The 292 engine was used in a variety of Ford vehicles in 1955, including passenger cars and trucks. Its versatility and reliability made it a popular choice for:
- Ford Fairlane
- Ford Thunderbird
- Ford F-Series trucks
- Mercury vehicles
Legacy of the Ford 292
The Ford 292 engine left a lasting impression on the automotive world. Its introduction marked a significant step forward in engine design for Ford, offering improved performance and durability compared to earlier engines. Even today, the 292 is celebrated by classic car enthusiasts who appreciate its historical significance and mechanical simplicity.
Whether you’re restoring a classic Ford or simply exploring automotive history, the 1955 Ford 292 engine remains a fascinating piece of engineering that helped shape the future of V8 engines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much horsepower does a 292 Ford have?
A 292, via a 3.75-inch bore, was standard in Mercurys and in the new Thunderbird, and optional in all other Fords. Horsepower ranged from 162 for a two-barrel 272 at 7.6:1 compression, up to 198 for a four-barrel 292 with 8.5:1 heads, all at 4400 rpm.
Was the Ford Flathead V8 a good engine?
The engine was named on Ward's list of the 10 best engines of the 20th century. It was a staple of hot rodders in the 1950s, and it remains famous in the classic car hobbies even today, despite the huge variety of other popular V8s that followed.
What engines were available in a 1955 Ford?
| 1955 Ford | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 223 CID (3.7 L) OHV I6 272 CID (4.5 L) Y-block V8 292 CID (4.8 L) T-bird V8 312 CID (5.1 L) T-bird V8 (1956) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual 3-speed manual plus overdrive Ford-O-Matic 3-speed automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 115.5 in (2,934 mm) |
Did Chevrolet make a 292 engine?
The High Torque 292 engine, displacing 292 cubic inches (4.8 L), was used in Chevrolet and GMC trucks beginning in 1963 and Step-Van/Value-Vans beginning in 1964. It was also the standard engine in the Chevy Van/GMC Vandura G20 and G30 from 1975 to 1978.
How much horsepower does a 4.9 straight 6 have?
Beginning in 1978, the engine displacement was advertised in metric, becoming "4.9 L." Fuel injection and other changes in 1987 increased output to 150 horsepower (112 kW) with an 8.8:1 compression ratio.
What was the problem with the flathead engine?
Because the exhaust follows a lengthy path to leave the engine, there is a tendency for the engine to overheat. (Note: this is true for V-type flathead engines but less of an issue for inline engines which typically have the intake and exhaust ports on the same side of the engine block.)
What was the best Ford engine ever made?
10 Most Reliable Ford Engines Ever Built
- 8 EcoBoost Family.
- 7 Boss 429.
- 6 428 Cobra Jet.
- 5 Flathead V8.
- 4 427 Big Block V8.
- 3 Boss 302.
- 2 5.0 EFI High Output.
- 1 5.0 Coyote V8.
Is a inline 6 more powerful than a V6?
From a performance perspective, inline six-cylinder engines often produce more torque at lower speeds than V6s. Further, an inline six-cylinder is usually quieter and has less vibration than a V6.
How much horsepower does a 1955 Ford 292 have?
The Mercury division had two versions of the 292 available in 1955. The standard engine had a 7.6:1 compression ratio and was rated at 188 bhp (140 kW) at 4,400 rpm, with 272 lb⋅ft (369 N⋅m) of torque at 2,500 rpm.
Is the Ford 4.9 inline 6 a good engine?
Best Answer The 4.9l, otherwise known as the Inline 6 or 300 6 is a very reliable motor. You keep thick oil in it and it'll run forever. I've got a 67 F100 with the inline six and I will admit, I do burn around in it every now and again. But not alot.
