SB or BB, seriously guys...

[speed220mph]

BANDIT 1

You're not the only one confused about this issue. The FE series is the big-block Ford V8 . . . always was, always will be. I got this small- vs. big-block question all the time after I published the small-block Ford and Ford V8 books.

The 385 series V8 is a small-block on steroids from totally different tooling. I don't think there any question about the small block V8 being the 255/260/289/302 and, yes, the 351W. And there's the 351C/351M V8. What do you call it? It's the 335 series Ford V8, just in case you were wondering. Similarly, although a big-displacement engine, the 385 series Ford is not a big-block engine.

The small- and big-block terms were started when life was simple. There were two V8s . . . small blocks and big blocks. Then as new engines from totally different tooling came along, the small- and big-block terms ceased to be used to describe the series of engine.

And how about Chevies? Try to explain to someone that a 400 is a small block and a 396 is a big block!!

For further confusion, ask me another question

EXCALIBER

Pigs do fly! Have you ever flown a C119?

[Tom Wells]

For further confusion, ask me another question

er, what planet did you say you're from

[speed220mph]

Tom Wells,

Planet FORD

[Back in Black]

Nice to know I have the best of both worlds, sb and BB in one unit

[Jahred]

The 460/514 is a great choice for the 427SC Rep's where price is any consideration.

I think SB's are great, but if considering a BB in the upper power ranges I think it is critical to be realistic about whether your rolling chassis choice is up to the challenge. That might be a bigger consideration than the engine itself.

Some of the kits these days have very substantial frames and accommodate bulletproof rear end set-ups that handle those engines well and blend with that power very effectively.

I think there are some IRS set ups that can handle 600+ Horsepower, but I am a bit skeptical (breakage, traction problem from axle deflection reducing tirepatch under acceleration) and my impression is that those that can do justice to that horsepower are pretty damn pricey. I find it interesting the Johnex, which I think builds one of the best "racer"chassis, has gone almost exclusivleyl "live axel".

So anyway, just another thought. If you are going "BBB", be realistic about whether the chassis set up you've chosen will get the job done.

[misfit41]

I dont think you can refer to a 427 and a 460 base motor as big blocks in the same context,they are not simular in any way,an fe motor looks more correct,sounds better and has tons of torque and bragging rights,with alloy heads the wieght problem is a myth,Carrol Shelby was no fool,,50/50 is 50/50.Small blocks rock too,and have character all their own,I would definately prefer the small block over a 460 series,mostly because of weight,and a 460 isnt correct looking in any cobra.
427 isnt the only consideration here though,it is hard to buid a 427 under 500 hp with decent parts,and 361's,390's etc can be built cheaper,lots of torque and power,,and they look and sound right.
I suggest reading "insights into the fe engine by Jim Dove,http://www.doveperformanceparts.com/...insightfe,most peopel who dont love fe motors have never had one,or dont understand how different they are,Tk

[Jahred]

Misfit says....

"I dont think you can refer to a 427 and a 460 base motor as big blocks in the same context,they are not simular in any way,an fe motor looks more correct,sounds better and has tons of torque and bragging rights,with alloy heads the wieght problem is a myth,Carrol Shelby was no fool,,50/50 is 50/50."

Misfit.....guess that's what makes life interesting. So which of the two you mention don't you think qualifies as a "Big Block"??

A 427 with more torque than a 460/514?? Now that is facsinating.........where do I find one of those?? I did not run accross one of those in my search........and they sound better? Cool......(to whom?)

Re alloy heads.....they are standard on the 460 Crate Motors. More expensive and harder to find on the 427, no?? Were those aluminum heads "correct" on the original 427's?? I agree - 50/50 is critical to the "brand".....(a fundamental characteristic/performance objective) and is not hard to get to with a big block with aluminum heads......

I don't get carried away with your version of correct.........if Carrol Shelby had the 514 available to him in 66, the Cobra woulda run it........and the 514 is the only route short of an extra 20k dollar bill to achieve the 0-100-00 legend (i.e. fastest) in todays environment.............50/50 balance and fastest 0-100-0 times?? now THAT'S CORRECT, and THOSE are BRAGGIN RIGHTS!

[mrmustang]

Once again, a topic more than beaten to death...Let this one die off as well.........Seems to be someone is drumming up old threads in order to incite conflict and arguements..............Again........


Bill S.

[Back in Black]

A group primal scream, and let it die

[Excaliber]

...I heard a 400 small block Chevy can be punched/stroked out to 454 cid. I guess pigs DO fly! LOL

Ernie