Why Wouldn't I Want To Try This

[75DBE]

Ok, so I am reading this article:

http://www.stangtv.com/tech-stories/eng ... d/?print=1

This alll started from another thread here on which way to go with a new engine for someones Bronco. The gist of the first article that I read -- titled Small Block Ford Reality -- is that it was a waste of time and effort trying to build up a 302 engine and that starting with a 351W engine gave you by far the best bag for your buck. The article above talks about taking a good 351W block and building up an inexpensive (although all is relative) 408ci Small Block Ford engine that puts out 550 HP.

If the weight of the engine is about the same -- and I think it should be -- why don't we see more 408 engines in Broncos -- or other cars for that matter?

Thoughts?

[akaFrankCastle]

Without reading the article...
My guess is two reasons.
1) Dropping a 408 into a Bronco is pretty much going to kill any hopes of keeping your fuel economy in the double digits.
2) A 408 will pretty much be overkill for a Bronco. 550HP is pretty cool in a Mustang or other hot rod type vehicle. But, practically speaking, way more than you would ever need in one of our trucks.

Now, that's not to say I wouldn't want 550. But I'm more concerned with MPGs and reliability.

[75DBE]

Hey!

I'm thinking the next Bandimere Pinks ALL Out all the way!

HAH!

[akaFrankCastle]

Budget build says the article. Some very quick math just produced a parts cost of just over 3000 before any machine work.

Heads: 1600 (before porting)
Cam: 250+
Pushrods: 150+
Pistons: 500+
Rockers: 250+