Where is the casting number on a Ford FE cylinder head?
As a seasoned auto repair professional, I often get questions about identifying specific parts of an engine, especially when it comes to classic engines like the Ford FE series. One common query is about locating the casting number on a Ford FE cylinder head. This number is crucial for identifying the exact specifications of the cylinder head, which is essential for repairs, replacements, or restorations. In this article, I’ll guide you through where to find this number and why it’s important.
What Is a Casting Number?
The casting number is a unique identifier that provides information about the manufacturing details of a cylinder head. It typically includes data such as the production date, the plant where it was made, and the specific design of the part. For Ford FE engines, this number is especially important for enthusiasts and mechanics working on vintage vehicles, as it helps ensure compatibility and authenticity.
Where to Locate the Casting Number on a Ford FE Cylinder Head
Finding the casting number on a Ford FE cylinder head can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the engine layout. Here’s where you should look:
- Top of the Cylinder Head: The casting number is often located on the top surface of the cylinder head, near the valve cover mounting area. You may need to remove the valve cover to see it clearly.
- Underside of the Cylinder Head: In some cases, the casting number is stamped on the underside of the head. This requires removing the cylinder head from the engine block to access it.
- Exhaust Port Area: Another common location is near the exhaust ports. Check the area around the ports for a stamped or cast number.
Tips for Identifying the Casting Number
Here are some tips to make the process easier:
- Clean the Surface: Over time, dirt, grease, and grime can obscure the casting number. Use a degreaser and a wire brush to clean the area thoroughly.
- Use a Flashlight: If the number is faint or located in a hard-to-see spot, a flashlight can help illuminate it.
- Check for Raised or Stamped Numbers: The casting number may be raised (cast into the metal) or stamped (indented into the surface). Look carefully for either type.
Why the Casting Number Matters
Knowing the casting number is essential for several reasons:
- Ensuring Compatibility: When replacing or repairing a cylinder head, the casting number ensures you’re using the correct part for your engine.
- Authenticity for Restorations: For classic car restorations, matching the casting number to the original specifications is crucial for maintaining the vehicle’s value and authenticity.
- Understanding Performance Specs: Different casting numbers may indicate variations in performance characteristics, such as valve size or combustion chamber volume.
Conclusion
Locating the casting number on a Ford FE cylinder head is a straightforward process once you know where to look. Whether you’re performing a repair, sourcing a replacement, or restoring a classic car, this number is a vital piece of information. If you’re still having trouble finding it or need assistance with your Ford FE engine, feel free to reach out to us at Kevin’s Autos. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’re here to help you keep your vehicle running smoothly!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you read a Ford head casting number?
Numbering Convention
Ford's part number convention generally follows the format of a four-digit casting code, followed by a four-digit basic part number, which will be “6090” for a cylinder head, followed by the revision version.
How do you identify cylinder heads?
Cylinder heads may be identified by their casting number, located between the #4 and #5 pushrods. General identification is as follows: 850-1100 heads have a heater tap at 90 degrees to the centerline of the engine. The space between the thermostat housing and the valve cover is small, at 1/16"
What is the casting number on a Ford FE engine?
Blocks
| 4TE-C | '64 - '77/ 330MD c.i.d. | Medium Duty Truck |
|---|---|---|
| C4AE-F | '64/ 390 c.i.d. | Police Interceptor, High Performance, Solid Lifters |
| C4ME-F | '64/ 390 c.i.d. | Police Interceptor, High Performance |
| C5AE-A | '65/ 390 c.i.d. | |
| C5AE-B | '65/ 390 c.i.d. | Police Interceptor, High Performance, Solid Lifters |
How are my cylinders numbered?
The numbering system for cylinders is generally based on the cylinder numbers increasing from the front to the rear of an engine (See engine orientation below). However, there are differences between manufacturers in how this is applied; some commonly used systems are as listed below.
Where is the casting number on a Ford FE head?
A majority of FE blocks have either a '352' or a backwards '501' cast into the front of the block. With the exception of a few hi-performance 428 blocks, most all other FE blocks are identical externally.
Where is the head casting number located?
HEAD CASTING NUMBERS
The head casting number is located on the top of the cylinder head. The valve covers must be removed to find the number.
How do I decode a Ford Casting number?
A = 1940s, B = 1950s, C = 1960s, D = 1970s, E = 1980s, F = 1990s. The second digit will be a numeral, and will represent the year within that decade (i.e. C2 = 1962; E7 = 1987). The third digit is usually another letter, but can also be a numeral in rare cases, and it signifies the vehicle the part was designed for.
How to identify a cylinder head?
Cylinder heads may be identified by their casting number, located between the #4 and #5 pushrods. General identification is as follows: 850-1100 heads have a heater tap at 90 degrees to the centerline of the engine. The space between the thermostat housing and the valve cover is small, at 1/16"
Where is the serial number on a cylinder head?
The stamping is usually located on the end of the casting above the accessory bolt area just below the valve cover rail. We have stamped some heads on the exhaust side of the head as well. The numbering system only identifies the casting model and the year the head was made.
Where are Ford engine casting numbers?
usually the casting number is down where the starter goes, on the passenger side of the block near the bottom at the back of the block.
