Thread: Ford 400

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I have always been a chevy man when it comes to building for myself, but I just became the proud owner of a 1965 ford galaxy.
At first i did not think I would like the car but in reality this car has very nice body lines. My problem is I know almost nothing about fords. The car has a 352 interceptor in it but i do have a low mileage 400 sb ford with auto tranny. I am looking for info on a good set up for the motor I plan to do a full build up on the car and drive train. What I am wanting out of the motor is huge horse power and torqe to move the slightly over wieght car down the street and strip. ( so still streetable somewhat ). any info will be great ty much.

I don't want to be the bearer of bad news, but the 400 small blocks are not necessarly the best engine to start with for a major preformance build. The bottom ends of these engines do not generally hold up well at decent HP levels, plus the availability of hardcore parts to build "huge horse power and torque" is somewhat limited.

Personally, if your planning on a street strip car you might look into starting with a 460. These engines are readily available (you can often but a whole car for next to nothing). With the larger displacement you can easily put out equal or greater power with fewer mods (more streetability) than you would be able to from the 400. Additionally this 460 is better supported by the aftermarket parts suppliers.

I know it's tempting to think it's going to be cheaper to use an engine that you already have than to start fresh with something else, but often in the long run if you spend say $1000 more to get the same HP figures are you really saving anything?

Thank You Mike for the info that answers alot of my questions since I dont know much about fords. basicly there is no replacement for displacement. hince my 64 chevelle is now running a 468 bb

But i did fail to mention I also have a 460 out of a early model Lincoln and I was told ( not sure if this is right ) the engine has dove tail heads on it ( not sure what those are )

I dont see a problem with putting the big block in the car since it has more room under the hood then my pickup has in the bed.

Any suggestions or a build up of a 460 would be great too