Topic: 69 S code (390 IP) block casting numbers

[willy001]

Hi all,

I purchased a 69 fastback S code car a while back that was missing the block but had all the other engine parts scattered around. I have heads, intake, air cleaner, exhaust etc. I'm now looking for the correct block but I need some wisdom imparted on me. I can't seem to find any clear info on what casting number I'm looking for. I'm thinking the block is just a generic C8AE-? but I'm not sure. I searched through the archives here and made a few calls but I came up short. Anyone have some experience with the 69 S code motors?

Thanks in advance.

[ClevelandKid]

Try here. Bookmark this site. Its a wealth of info. 

http://mustangtek.com/block/Block.html

[willy001]

Thanks.
I have referenced this site before and found it very helpful. However all the numbers that I'm interested in are unconfirmed. I was hoping I could find a definitive answer from one of the many experts here.

[ClevelandKid]

I don't think there was anything specific about 390-S code engine blocks. The S code was the 390 4V engine code but the 390 was given other codes as well in earlier years. I think the 67-70 390 S codes were just regular 390 blocks with GT heads, GT cam and Holley carb. 

[willy001]

My thinking is a generic 390 block as well. The heads are the 14 exhaust bolt C8AE-H, intake is a real flat looking C9ZE-B with an Autolite 4300 carb sitting on a coolant through carb spacer which is all correct and original as far as I can tell by date codes and research. However there are a lot of 390 blocks out there and I bet any of them would work just fine but .... I want the correct casting and date codes for this car. So my question still is, out of the many choices for 390 blocks, which is the right casting number?

[J_Speegle]

Did a quick search and it appears that that 69 didn't used the typical C6ME-C7ME or C8AE casting on the side of the block like we see in the 67-68 period

Though not the "bible" for correct information the guy does appear to have a fair amount of experience with late 60's FE's

http://www.ebay.com/itm/1969-FORD-FE-390-GT-390GT-ENGINE-BLOCK-9E15-CYLINDER-HEADS-9B21-WATER-PUMP-/260418549154?pt=Vintage_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3ca227b5a2&vxp=mtr


Which will leave you with measuring the bore and comparing casting dates alone. Got to love what Ford id on FE engines. Especially the mixing and matching  of exterior castings from earlier engines and such


Good luck with your search

[willy001]

Thanks Jeff. The guy you linked to on ebay has a block with the right date code but it has a crack that needs to be repaired. Thanks to everyone for taking the time to help me along. Still not sure what I'm going to do though ...

[J_Speegle]

...........Still not sure what I'm going to do though ...

Think you'll be searching for a crackless (is that a word??)  390 block for your application. Got to be out there

[jmlay]

You may wish to post over in the classified section of http://www.fordfe.com. I would include the date range you are looking for & I am sure someone will have one.

[willy001]

Thanks. I'll give that a whirl.