[misfit41]

the 406 was a good running engine for sure,the easiest way to build one is a 428 block with a 390 or 427 crank,since it is a 4.13 {428} bore with a 3.78 {390,427} stroke,parts nearly 100 % enterchangable with all fe's. although I dont see the point,since you can have the 428 for the same dough.{many 390's will safely bore to 4.13}
406's were caught up in the horse power war,thus the short life span,after the 427 hit the world,,there wasnt a need for a 390,406,and 427,or at least ford thought so.
I have read that the intake design was meant to add strengh,interlocking the head and intake at the block deck acts much like the lifter valley webbing in the newer svo blocks.It sure is a pain in the butt to pull the intake,,thats the only flaw for me.
I realize fe's are cubic inch limited,but I still think cubic inch to hp it is a hard engine to beat,and they are easy horsepower,a decent 390 ,eldebrock heads,decent cam,easily 400+ bulletproof horsepower ,this is an engine you can build for less than a small block,and looks the best in a cobra,,
merry christmas all,,Tim