Thread: New to 390 FE looking for good advice

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new here too. keep asking questions.66 500 xl 390

fmx, cruso-matic tell me more. what are they?

cast iron case 3speed auto transmission..... very durable and made to take an excessive amount of abuse.....not a big aftermarket on them, but they're a pretty solid transmission, not neccisarly for racing, but they can be used for such purpose

I would think at this point if you are considering building the engine for more HP, but limited on funds, you should do a gasket and seal replacement "gasket overhaul" and a good cleaning. If you plan on replacing pistons then you will end up doing rings and bearing and a cylinder hone or sleeve replacement. I would look at the Edelbrock packages that are specifically for the Ford FE motors as Mike P. suggested. I went with the RPM package and gain well over 400HP. I would like to hear more about why Mike P. said to stay away from the RPM and go with Performer. I also got rid of the ford rail valve system and replaced it with Crane roller rockers and hydralic lifters. I changed the torque converter to a 2500 stall converter and went with the MSD 6AL ignition controller (part # 6420), a Blaster SS ignition coil (#8207), a MSD distributor (#8477), and a MSD wire set (#35389). Your cam, water pump, timing chain, manifold, carb., will all be part of the Edelbrock package. How this helps. I love the 390 FE. Lots of potential.

I thought I would post this link. It's a good Carb. sizing calculator.

http://www.usaimports.co.uk/Carb_Calculator.htm

How are those Crane rockers working for ya? I've heard lots of guys having problems with them. I also thought Crane stopped selling these?

Very nice. I did this back in 98' - 00' so its been awhile. Its almost a shame to put covers over them as they are a blue anodized color. They replaced the rail rocker system and after some adjustments everything worked out great.