Thread: FE install in 1955-1957 T-Bird

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Started a thread on FE into a full size 1957 Ford earlier but have change plans. Have the engine but not the car as yet so thinking about going a different way.
So, does anyone have a source of info on the details of installing a FE block in a 1955-1957 T-Bird?? I know it has been done but would like to talk to someone or see some photos of the hot spots. Headers are a major problem if you don't change to rack and pinion but don't want to switch if someone makes a set. Also motor mounts are a big question.
Any help would be appreciated.

So just what are your plans for this car???? a 55-57 t-bird would be best suited with a dual quad or supercharged y block!!!!!!!!!!or how about a newer type engine ?Ford 4cam or GM LS or late Hemi?????

Originally Posted by jerry clayton

So just what are your plans for this car???? a 55-57 t-bird would be best suited with a dual quad or supercharged y block!!!!!!!!!!or how about a newer type engine ?Ford 4cam or GM LS or late Hemi?????

C6rodder, previously you said that you bought a 427 side oiler to drop into a '57 Ranchero, but now it appears that the deal on the Ranchero has not happened and you're looking for another home for the 427?

Back in the early sixties(1962) I helped a guy start an 406 install-----he got transferred to the west coast and I don't know if he ever finished it----the Y block engines exhaust manifolds came up and over from the ports where the FE manifolds went down and back---car was very narrow in that area at the side of block but towards the front of engine was some room altho then he had to go down/back where as stock went down from back of heads near bellhousing---

also might be problem with oil filter location---------

Originally Posted by jerry clayton

So just what are your plans for this car???? a 55-57 t-bird would be best suited with a dual quad or supercharged y block!!!!!!!!!!or how about a newer type engine ?Ford 4cam or GM LS or late Hemi?????

Hi Jerry,
I have a 1966 side oiler that I want to put into it. I got the Ranchero thinking it was what I wanted to put it in but after driving the Ranchero it feels too big for me. I am more use to street rods from the 30's which are quite small and Corvettes so even though the 57 Ford was considered a small or intermediate car it feels huge to me.

Originally Posted by rspears

C6rodder, previously (427 FE install in a 57 Ford) you said that you bought a 427 side oiler to drop into a '57 Ranchero, but now it appears that the deal on the Ranchero has not happened, right? So you're now thinking of getting a '55 to '57 Bird, and dropping the 427 side oiler into place, right? I'd think that trying to do that without building a set of custom headers is going to be hard to accomplish. Once you get the engine into place to figure out the mounts the exhaust constraints will be more apparent. Not saying you won't find someone here who's done it before or some OEM manifolds that work, but you might get lucky on a T-Bird Forum, unless they want to string you up for hot rodding a classic - Dedicated To The Ford Thunderbird Car Hobby

I did in fact get the Ranchero but as stated in a reply to another member, it is just too big for me.
I know what you mean about contacting a T-Bird club. They do not want anyone modifying a stock one.
Thanks for your input.
Gary

Take a look at this---would really be complimetry to an "early bird"

Ebay #310619322533

2011 coyote 5.0gt and 6 speed--all accessories, wiring harness,ecm,etc

and pedal set!!!!!!!!!!!!!

orrrrrrrrrrrrr if you want GM-----Ebay #251235599925

2010 Camaro LS3 6 speed

Originally Posted by jerry clayton

Take a look at this---would really be complimetry to an "early bird"

Ebay #310619322533

2011 coyote 5.0gt and 6 speed--all accessories, wiring harness,ecm,etc

and pedal set!!!!!!!!!!!!!

orrrrrrrrrrrrr if you want GM-----Ebay #251235599925

2010 Camaro LS3 6 speed

Thanks for the info but I am set on installing a FE 427 in it. I want old school mean, not new school mean and am willing to spend the money on gas to get the thrill and sound I want. I am 70 years old and stuck in the 50's and 60's.

I did this conversion in the early 70's. I used a 332 truck front cover to build the motor mounts from had to hand make the headers, custom build the oil pan and transmission mounts a 66 Mustang 9 inch bolts right in. I set the motor low enough to close the stock hood with medium riser and dual 4's with 1 " air cleaners. The headers took months to build many U bends and oxy acetylene keyhole welded.