Rod bearing suggestions

[LeonardU]

I have a 1966 427 SO block which was rebuilt 4 years ago and has approximately 10K miles on the rebuild. I want to replace the rod bearings with the best on the market since that is the weakest part of the engine. Any suggestions on the best rod bearings to install?

I will be replacing the rear main seal to the engine since my seal leaks. I remember that this is a common problem with 427 SO blocks and I remember a post a while back suggesting a rear seal that doesn't leak. If anyone can help, I would appreciate the info.

I have a thermostat in the engine and I have been told that the best thing to do is to take out the thermostat and put in a restrictor plate. Is this true? If so, describe the restrictor plate.

Finally, I see that Edelbrock has come out with an aluminum water pump. Anyone have experience with this pump and is it worth the money to install one.

Thanks,

Len

[CCX33911]

I have the edelbrock pump. A very nice unit and much lighter then the cast iron versions. It is rebuildable also.

[Rick 427 Cobra]

Ford Power Parts makes the good seal
Phone (562) 921-5300
Good to see you at breakfast again
Rick

[Bob Putnam]

Len,

There are lots of opinions on thermostats. See this thread:
What is the purpose of a thermostat?

I personally think that if you aren't in desperate need to cure overheating, you should use a thermostat.

[GEORGE ANDERSON]

Hi Len...the sources for FE performance engine bearings is certainly limited. We usually install Federal Mogul performance rod bearings 8-7170CH available in std/.001/.010, and Federal Mogul also offers their standard rod bearing 3230CP available in std/.001/.010/.020 etc....Michigan 77 (Clevite) also offers standard type rod & main bearings....Federal Mogul had a performance main bearing but discontinued it recently...it didn't fit correctly....
We also use the Childs & Alberts Lead Indium bearings in the Shelby blocks we build....these blocks accept the 351C bearing which is the same size as the FE except the tangs have a different placement....so if you retang the block and run the performnce versions of the 351C and a whole new world on bearings opens up...
Cam bearings have additional suppliers including Dura-Bond
I'd be interested in other members experiences with bearings in their FE's...
Regards, george

[RobMcQuarie]

I also like the King bearings for both rod and main-very nice parts. For std FE's, we use either the Durabond heavy duty race cam bearings, or the coated HD bearings. Although the 427SO bearings are only available in a std duty, so we use a coated version in all SO applications.

George: I've used the F/M competition rod bearings (when available), but was unaware of problems with the comp. mains. What fit problem are you refering to?
Rob

[CobraEd]

I would have to think that the reason why the Ford FE 427 has such a tendency to throw rods is not the rod bearings but the actual rod design/material or weak rod bolts, not the bearings. This is just a guess on my part though.

Ed

[LeonardU]

Thanks to all who have replied. Your suggestions and advise is great. I really appreciate you taking the time to help. This forum is great for advise from experts who care about Cobras and owners who love their cars.

Thanks again,

Len