Thread: My 429

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Originally Posted by Krebskolonie

I've some question about my 429 engine in my 72 ford t-bird. What are the possibilities to get more horsepower without a blower? And does anyone know where can i find some performance-headers?

Now there are some D2VE-AA cylinder heads mounted. The pre-owner have also mounted a Edelbrock Performer 460 intake manifold.

I read something about some heads from older series, but I am now a little confused and where can I buy it? If i change them, I think I have also to change other engine parts, perhaps the timing gear kit? And is it better to mount a new, stronger oil pump?
I come from Switzerland and its not easy to find some parts.

I don't know what's in your country the minimum octane number. We have here min. 95 octane, if it uses you.

I hope i can start to do something over the winter soon.

Thank you a lot for helping!!

The D2VE-AA heads are single year heads (1972 only) and are the only open chamber head for the 460. Ford stopped using them after just one year because they are detonation prone, and in a performance application they are virtually unusable with a tremendous amount of rework.

What is lucky for you is that you have 95 octane fuel available, and therefore you may not experience detonation.

If you chenge your D2VE-AA heads for some earlier 460 heads (C8VE, C9VE or D0VE) your compression ratio will rise to about 10.5:1. With some port work on the heads, your engine will have more power. In order to use these early-style cylinder heads, you need to change the valve train because the D2VE valve train will not work on the C9VE/C9VE/D0VE heads.

A more simple head change is the D3VE heads, which will not raise compression on your engine but will use the same valve train as your D2VE heads, and they are a closed chamber cylinder head design. If the D3VE heads are ported and installed onto your engine, you may see a 50hp increase...of course, more hp is possible with other engine upgrades.

We sell these heads if you need them. We sell bare castings, fully assembled heads, or ported/assembled/ready to bolt on.

How much horsepower do you want?

Paul

Originally Posted by Paul Kane

How much horsepower do you want?

Paul

Hmm...I think between 400 and 500hp. I hope the vehicle is always drivable for going to work (sometimes) . You have sure a good set-up!?!

I've got a 72 in my truck. Like Paul said the heads are not much to talk about. I put a pair of rebuilt 69's on mine with roller rockers and made a big difference. Also, put a pre 72 timing chain and gears on and really makes a lot more grunt and loads of fun. The 72 timing chain is retarded and prior to that they were set straight up. Have Fun!