FE Power Forums
FE Power Forums => FE Technical Forum => Topic started by: 1968galaxie on June 08, 2022, 03:16:30 PM
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Just taking apart my "old" 390 on the engine stand for 20+ years.
Has domed TRW pistons +0.030 and C1AE-A heads were used.
I just measured the cam that was installed late 80's this morning. The cam card is long gone.
The lobes and lifters all look like new.
Measured specs:
Intake duration: 291.5 @0.006", 245@0.050" 0.288" lobe lift ICL 109.5
Exhaust duration: 310 @0.006", 262.5@0.050" 0.297" lobe lift ECL 113.0
I probably should have advanced the cam 4 or 5 degrees more - as the bottom end was less than stellar with 3000 stall converter.
Wth did i know at 20 years old?
Needless to say a modern high lift cam will replace this one.
Cheers
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I bet it ran strong, goes to show you though the difference in parts since we were younger. Things are real expensive now, but there is some good stuff out there
A nice nitrided flat tappet with tool steel EDM lifters, or a roller, will significantly change that engine. Some tips on the C1s, watch seal/guide to retainer clearance, I like to cut them down and use a small bronze guide and cups, even better is 11/32 valves while you do it. Also, those C1s can use some rubbing, they are earlier standard ports and gained a bit of flow with the C3 and C4 castings, but they can do pretty well with some easy rubbing and a good valve job
Although that was likely a very stout 390, a litle cam and head work, power increase could be very significant, even in the same RPM range if you want to stay there