427 crank shaft info

[allrightmike]

In my last post I asked abut 427 lifter oiling, I am now seeking info as to what mix of cranks (cast vs Forged) went into regular production 427 engines. Also did the forged cranks all feature the hollow crank pins with plugs? I may have an opportunity to score a forged std. std. crank. Ballpark figure on value.

[428kidd]

Early 63-64 used cast cranks , except for some early high riser race stuff. The steel $ sign cranks came on mid  late 64 , but much more common by 65 and used in the 65 up engines. You dont say if its fresh ready to go or std needing fixed but $500 to a grand is where it would fall.  Yes they have core in them and are hollow. Some have press in some screw in plugs.

[allrightmike]

Info much appreciated. The crank in question is said to be std. and serviceable, I'll deploy the mics and we'll see. Would you characterize the early cast cranks as basically a 390 crank with maybe a different balance factor?

[Rory428]

Early 63-64 used cast cranks , except for some early high riser race stuff. The steel $ sign cranks came on mid  late 64 , but much more common by 65 and used in the 65 up engines. You dont say if its fresh ready to go or std needing fixed but $500 to a grand is where it would fall.  Yes they have core in them and are hollow. Some have press in some screw in plugs.

My understanding was that the 68 hydraulic lifter W code 427s, as well as the "300 HP" 427 marine engines were also equipped with cast crankshafts.

[blykins]

If you're not aiming for block-scattering levels of horsepower, I'd rather have the cast crank to be honest.  They're plenty strong enough, lighter, cheaper, and easier to clean....

[galaxiex]

At what HP level would you go to a steel crank?

Would a Scat cast crank be ok at say, 600 - 650 HP?

[allrightmike]

Brent, can't argue with your comments. I currently have a full groove main 390 crank in my 427. I am using half groove bearings. Is there a history of bearing failure or breakage with said crank? Also my interest in the forged crank is, I think I can swap a pair of valve covers for it and probably pass it on.

[blykins]

At what HP level would you go to a steel crank?

Would a Scat cast crank be ok at say, 600 - 650 HP?

Many cast Scat cranks have been ran at 650-700 hp.

When I do aftermarket block builds, then I go to a steel crank, because the blocks can withstand more horsepower than a cast crank will allow. 

[blykins]

Brent, can't argue with your comments. I currently have a full groove main 390 crank in my 427. I am using half groove bearings. Is there a history of bearing failure or breakage with said crank? Also my interest in the forged crank is, I think I can swap a pair of valve covers for it and probably pass it on.

Swapping for valve covers is certainly a good deal....