Mk4 build with a 385 series help

[GFX2043mtu]

I have been looking at doing a for kit for a while as this is exactly the kind of car I have always wanted. I'm finally in the position to pull the trigger on one but I'm running into some problems with getting the build list together. I'm going to use a 385 series engine (572 bbf) but it appears after a brief discussion with the lady that picks up the phone at ffr that they dont support this engine any more and I could get much info out of her. After searching the forum I know the motor will fit, it's more of a question of where to I get the headers and motor mounts to make this more of a drop in combo. I can make motor mounts and headers but I would rather purchase them and spend the time I would have spent on fabricating them on other areas of the car. If any one has a 460 based ffr in the Grand Rapids Michigan area I would love to see it as it may answer some other questions I'm sure to have in the near future.

[GoDadGo]

I didn't go down the familiar Ford engine choices either, but I did find engine mounts at Speedway Motors that I was able to weld in place. I moved my engine forward to clear my distributor (Small Block Chevy) and fit my transmission (ZF-640 C-4 Corvette).

The way I placed the mounts was pretty easy. I mocked up the engine, including the oil pan that I intended to use, and set the frame on the ground and stuck the engine and trans in during the process. I leveled and made sure it was straight and set up the mounts.

Be advised that my engine centerline is in line with the pinion, but you'll have to keep it pushed to the right an inch or so more than my set up because of the size of the engine. The location of the engine (Front to Rear) pretty much lines up the center of the head inline with where the side pipes exit the body. This allowed me to run Schoenfield IMCA headers, but I don't think they make them for a BBF so you're on your own getting a custom set made.

I don't know if this helps or not, but my driveline is in no way shape or form supported by Factory Five and that's okay since this is a dark side build.

Good Luck On Building Your Dream Car!

NOTE: I did get the footbox set up for the modular motor to give me a little more wiggle room.

[Topfuelhydro]

I put a Boss 9 in my MK III which uses the 385 block. Bought the motor mounts from Mike Forte. Had to drill through the FFR mount perches into the motor mounts to bolt them down but pretty easy task. Obviously had to fabricate the headers myself due to the head configuration so I can't help you there. Used the TKO 600 and the FFR 302 driveshaft. Not a huge deal. Moved the ds footbox over about 1" or so to give me more room for heads. That was the hardest part but I have seen other guys do it with minor sheetmetal mods for the valve covers. Someone else may need to weigh in but not a lot of difference in that part between MKIV and MKIII.

Steven

[GoDadGo]

Steven,

Please explain to this Chevy Guy what a Boss-9 is.
Is that a Boss-429 with the Semi Hemi Heads?

Steve

[Topfuelhydro]

Boss 9 is a 385 series block with Jon Kaase Boss 9 heads. Aftermarket aluminum versions of the 429 Boss heads.
57076

57077

Steven

[GoDadGo]

Boss 9 is a 385 series block with Jon Kaase Boss 9 heads. Aftermarket aluminum versions of the 429 Boss heads.
57076

57077

Steven

Steven,

Thanks for the education and for sending us all the pics.
All I can say is you have truly embraced the Go Big Or Go Home Theme!!
Also, the Banker side of me is pretty sure that your engine is probably the sum of my entire build.

Steve

[GFX2043mtu]

Thanks topfuelhydro, some sheet metal work is no problem as I have access to a sheer and brake. Thanks for pointing me to Mike forte for the mounts. I'll call him tomorrow and see what he says.