The Ford 428 Big Block V8 engine, part of the FE engine family, is a renowned powerplant that has been a staple in high-performance Ford vehicles from the late 1960s.
Known for its impressive torque and power output, the 428 has left an indelible mark in the muscle car era.
History and Development
The Ford 428 was introduced in 1966 as an evolution of the FE engine family, designed to offer higher displacement and power for high-performance applications.
It was primarily used in Ford’s performance and luxury cars, providing a balance of power, reliability, and smooth operation.
The engine became a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking a robust powertrain for both street and strip performance.
Ford 428 Big Block Design and Features
The Ford 428 is a naturally aspirated, overhead valve (OHV) engine with a 90-degree V8 configuration. Key design features include:
- Displacement: 428 cubic inches (7.0 liters)
- Bore and Stroke: 4.13 inches (104.9 mm) bore and 3.98 inches (101.1 mm) stroke
- Block Material: Cast iron
- Cylinder Heads: Cast iron with high-flow ports and large valves for better airflow
- Valvetrain: Overhead valve (OHV) with hydraulic lifters
- Fuel System: Carbureted, typically with a 4-barrel carburetor
- Ignition System: Points-based ignition, with some later models featuring electronic ignition
Ford 428 Big Block Specifications
Here are the detailed specifications for the Ford 428 Big Block V8 engine:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Production Years | 1966-1970 |
| Configuration | 90-degree V8 |
| Displacement | 428 cu in (7.0 L) |
| Bore x Stroke | 4.13 in x 3.98 in (104.9 mm x 101.1 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 (typical) |
| Power Output | 335 hp to 410 hp (250 kW to 305 kW) (varies by model and year) |
| Torque | 462 lb-ft (627 Nm) |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Carburetor | 4-barrel |
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Ford 428 Big Block Performance and Variants
The Ford 428 engine came in several variants, each tailored for specific performance needs:
- 428 Thunder Jet: Standard version used in full-size Fords, producing around 345 hp.
- 428 Police Interceptor: A high-performance version for police vehicles, producing up to 360 hp.
- 428 Cobra Jet (CJ): A performance variant introduced in 1968, featuring enhanced components and producing up to 410 hp.
- 428 Super Cobra Jet (SCJ): An upgraded version of the Cobra Jet with additional performance enhancements, offering higher horsepower and torque for drag racing.
Applications
The Ford 428 Big Block V8 engine was used in a variety of high-performance and luxury vehicles, including:
- Ford Mustang: Particularly in the Mach 1, GT, and Shelby GT500 models.
- Ford Torino: Including the GT and Cobra models.
- Ford Galaxie: In performance-oriented versions.
- Mercury Cougar: High-performance models featured the 428 engine.
- Mercury Cyclone: Including the CJ and SCJ versions.
Maintenance and Performance Upgrades
The Ford 428 engine is known for its durability and robust construction, making it a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts. Regular maintenance includes oil changes, valve adjustments, and ignition system checks. For those looking to enhance performance, numerous aftermarket parts are available:
- Performance Camshafts: To improve horsepower and torque.
- High-Flow Carburetors and Intake Manifolds: For better air-fuel mixture and engine breathing.
- Headers and Exhaust Systems: To reduce backpressure and increase performance.
- Electronic Ignition Systems: For more reliable ignition and improved performance.
- High-Compression Pistons and Performance Cylinder Heads: To increase power output.
Ford 428 Big Block Price
The price of a Ford 428 Big Block V8 engine can vary widely based on its condition, whether it is new, rebuilt, or used, and any additional features or modifications. As of 2024, prices generally range from:
- Rebuilt Engines: $7,000 to $12,000 – These engines have been disassembled, inspected, and rebuilt to factory specifications or better.
- Used Engines: $5,000 to $8,000 – These engines are sold as-is and may require significant work to reach optimal condition.
- Performance-Built Engines: $12,000 to $20,000+ – These engines have been rebuilt with high-performance parts and modifications.
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