[Power Surge]

Originally Posted by David Kirkham

Sal,

Thanks for you kind words!

When I looked at the Ford 5.4 (without ribs) and saw people getting over 700 at the REAR WHEELS in their new GT's, I decided the ribs were moon glow--(more useful for selling engines than running them). At that kind of power you simply can't use it any more. I think the original 427's are slow so that gives you my perspective. I think the new 482's are mind blowing...PERFECT!

The stock modular block is killer. And of course you know that 5.4s are my forte. My Lightning had over 800rwhp (about 970 flywheel) on a production 5.4 iron block. Some of the NMRA racers have made over 1500 hp on stock blocks (and stock forged cranks!!). I have Ford GT customers making 1100 rwhp on STOCK engines, not even a valve cover off. Of course, the GT motor is quite a bit more exotic than a regular 5.4, but it's the same design block.

The mod motor is very stiff because of the internal cross bolted mains. The irony there is that it's literally a modern version of a 427 block.

Also, there have been quite a few revisions to the iron 5.4 block. The latest NVH block has much thicker side walls and heavy ribs down the valley area.