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FE Power Forums => FE Technical Forum => Topic started by: ChiefDanGeorge on July 19, 2015, 06:00:14 PM

Title: 390 Block Question
Post by: ChiefDanGeorge on July 19, 2015, 06:00:14 PM

What should I look for when searching for a 390 block to use for my build? The more I read, the less sure I am on what I should be looking for. I'm looking to build a replacement for my '63 Colony Park. My goal is to have something around 350 HP.

 
Thanks for any advice!

Title: Re: 390 Block Question
Post by: Barry_R on July 19, 2015, 07:44:34 PM

At that power level you are simply looking for something with standard or no more than a .030 over bore (so you have room to tune it up), and no big damage - a block with cracks, damage, and scored cylinders is not worth purchasing when good ones are under $400.

Title: Re: 390 Block Question
Post by: ChiefDanGeorge on July 19, 2015, 07:48:33 PM

Thanks for the reply. Are there any particular years to look for or avoid?

Quote from: Barry_R on July 19, 2015, 07:44:34 PM

At that power level you are simply looking for something with standard or no more than a .030 over bore (so you have room to tune it up), and no big damage - a block with cracks, damage, and scored cylinders is not worth purchasing when good ones are under $400.

Title: Re: 390 Block Question
Post by: Barry_R on July 19, 2015, 07:57:36 PM

Look for cracks alongside the head bolts, and alongside the freeze plugs.
Make certain you get a post-'64 block with 4 bolt motor mounting holes.
I prefer nice greasy looking ones over those having a fresh coat of Krylon

Title: Re: 390 Block Question
Post by: ChiefDanGeorge on July 19, 2015, 08:04:50 PM

Will there be any potential issues with a later year block and the Merc 'Omatic transmission mounting smoothly?
I'd like to assume that they kept the transmission bolt holes the same between Merc O'matics, Ford 'OMatics, C4s... but I want to make sure.

Quote from: Barry_R on July 19, 2015, 07:57:36 PM

Look for cracks alongside the head bolts, and alongside the freeze plugs.
Make certain you get a post-'64 block with 4 bolt motor mounting holes.
I prefer nice greasy looking ones over those having a fresh coat of Krylon

Title: Re: 390 Block Question
Post by: 427Fastback on July 19, 2015, 08:19:03 PM

Interesting name Chief....Are you here in BC ??.......Cory

Title: Re: 390 Block Question
Post by: ChiefDanGeorge on July 19, 2015, 08:23:18 PM

Nope, South Carolina.

Quote from: 427Fastback on July 19, 2015, 08:19:03 PM

Interesting name Chief....Are you here in BC ??.......Cory

Title: Re: 390 Block Question
Post by: 427Fastback on July 19, 2015, 08:49:43 PM

Cool....I was born in Chief Dan Georges neighbourhood.....

Title: Re: 390 Block Question
Post by: woodboatwayne on July 19, 2015, 09:45:05 PM

if you only need a block don't overlook the 360, it is exactly the same