Thread: more engine ID questions=) for the experts !

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I have a fastback 68' Galaxie XL. I'm trying to figure out what the engine is.
The number between the spark plugs is: C8AE-H. Block casting date is June 18th, 1968(8F18) there is also a letter V and W next to the date near the oil filter.


Valve cover sticker: C8AE-9C485-8
Intake Manifold: C8TE9426A
Exaust manifold is: C8AE-9430-A
Thanks for Your support!

- Mac

I'm no Ford expert, but the C8TE-A intake and C8AE-H heads trace back to a 265 or 280 HP 390. I think it's a 1968 or 1969 low HP 390.

http://www.nhra.com/tech_specs/engin...ts/FORD-69.rtf

C8-H heads were very common heads to find on FE's. The intake is a truck part with the TE in the number but have been found on pass car engines. Look for a "T" on the intake. The heads have a date code between the 2 center valve springs under the VC. You can see if they match the block. You can measure the stroke easily.... put the #1 on TDC and remove the #1 and 4 plugs. Insert a wood dowel or stiff wire into #1 and mark using a common edge as a guide. Then insert into #4 and mark again using the same edge as a guide. Measure the distance between.
3.50" is a 352 stroke crank
3.78" or roughly 3 3/4" is a 390 stroke crank
3.98" or roughly 4" is a 428 stroke crank.

The only thing left to guess is the cyl bore. To confirm you'd need to remove a head to measure the bore. But I think Henry nailed it as a 390. A 428 would be a nice surprise tho....

G.