Anyone using 385 series (429-460) BBF engines? Feedback please

[JRLakester]

I may not be looking in the right place but have found no discussions regarding builds using a 385 series engine. I was considering a '67-'68 Mustang for my 460 stroker (502) powerplant but have not found a suitable chassis to start with. The roadster appears to offer a platform I can turn-key in my $35k roller budget (plus engine & trans), anyone having any success here? Thanks in advance for any feedback...

[Mark Dougherty]

those engines work great in these cars
even with the bigblock the FFR cobra will end up with 52% rear weight bias.
I would probably install a larger fuel tank though ;)

[rich grsc]

those engines work great in these cars
even with the bigblock the FFR cobra will end up with 52% rear weight bias.
I would probably install a larger fuel tank though ;)

Without a doubt!!! A buddy has a 460, gets 11 maybe 12 MPG, my 302 gets 20-22. We both have fun, his fuel stops works well with my bladder stops. :o

[68GT500MAN]

There are quite a few out here in California. They all love the engine and the sound is fantastic. Some went with a 22 gallon fuel tank so that they could increase the range.
Doug

[JRLakester]

There are quite a few out here in California. They all love the engine and the sound is fantastic. Some went with a 22 gallon fuel tank so that they could increase the range.
Doug

All sounds very encouraging, I was quite confident the car would accommodate the big block dimensions and power. Any technical input say regarding heavier front coil springs, availability of engine mounts and fore/aft positioning in the engine bay or fitting a Tremec Magnum transmission that will handle the nearly 700 horsepower? Thanks!!

[PaulProe]

Swap notes with someone who has one in their car - make sure you put a hatch in the sheetmetal to get to the left rear valve cover bolt and the #8 sparkplug. it's a tight fit

Paul

[GT Trooper]

Here is a pic of mine for ya. Tight fit but I love it and it sounds great! As previously stated, it's thirsty.
37707

[JRLakester]

Here is a pic of mine for ya. Tight fit but I love it and it sounds great! As previously stated, it's thirsty.
37707

Very nice Trooper! Looks snug, may have to ditch the Billet Specialties front drive. How much room do you have from the front of the block face to the first interfering cross member? I need a min of 9"clearance. Also, do you have a more frontal view? Worried about room for the Boss 9 heads. Also what did you do for oiling, pan? Dry sump? And trans? Thirst is no worries, used to 7-8mpg already...

[GT Trooper]

There is more room there than you think up front. I'm not in a position to take measurements but you should be able to find some decent images in the below link. Click on any image to enlarge. I started with the Aviad oil pan and switched to a Canton. Trans is a PA Supercomp C4.

http://s65.photobucket.com/user/GT_Trooper/story_24847/story

Short video with it running: http://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U&video_id=7e0XWqLppzU

Hope this helps.

[NICK C]

I have an MKIV with 429 near start up. I had no problem fitting the frame and can't wait to drive it. Thumper cam , Mas Flo fuel injection etc