Hey guys,
Thanks for the info. Clay and Al, you guys obviously know more about these motors than I. I've told you what little I know about them, but I'm learning! Clay, I'd love to have a more specific date for the block so I'll definitely check out that thread. I don't mean to be misleading to anyone in any way. I'm by no means a motor expert. Just a cobra nut! Please excuse my ignorance. By "original", I mean that this motor is all original Ford FE material. Or as much as any side-oiler can be....block, heads, intake, and crank (of course the cam and valve train parts are new). As you know, many of the side oilers now have after market parts on/in them and I just want to differentiate this motor from those.
Just so you know how I came by the info on this particular motor, the part numbers were provided by the builder and confirmed by another builder here in Austin. The builder here didn't comment on the rods, however. Al, I'll take your word that the wide beam rods are Le Mans and not CJ. TBH, I don't know the difference. Is one better or more valuable than the other? I also decribed as much of the motor as I could see from the outside to George at Gessford over the phone. He confirmed that the exterior plugs and parts were correct.
The builder here in Austin also told me that the motor has been rebuilt before, but done with all the correct and necessary parts. He didn't measure the cylinder size or deck height but did say that the front two cylinders have been sleeved and looked to be in great shape. He also said that the nicely redone heads were probably from the early to mid 60's and that the block was definitely at least late 60's.
You guys have motivated me to learn more! I appreciate you sharing your knowledge with me and everyone.
Keep the info and questions coming!
Charmer