Full Specifications of the Ford 460 V-8 Gas Engine

When it comes to heavy-duty performance, the Ford 460 V-8 engine stands as a titan in the automotive world. Introduced in 1968 as a replacement for Lincoln’s 462 FE-type engine and gaining popularity in the Mercury and Lincoln models, this powerful engine has become a staple in Ford’s F-truck line.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at its specifications, capabilities, and overall performance potential.

General Specifications:

• Engine Type: 7.5L (460 CID) V-8
• Bore and Stroke: 4.36 inches x 3.85 inches
• Firing Order: 1-5-4-8-6-3-7-2
• Oil Pressure at 2000 RPM: 275-443 kPa (40-65 PSI)

Belt Tension Specifications: For optimal functioning, proper belt tension is crucial. Here are the specifications for both newly installed and used belts:

• Newly Installed:
  • All except 1/4″: 534-711 N.m (120-150 lbs)
  • 1/4″ Only: 223-355 N.m (52-80 lbs)
• Used Over 10 Min:
  • All except 1/4″: 334-533 N.m (75-120 lbs)
  • 1/4″ Only: 178-266 N.m (40-60 lbs)

Cylinder Head Details: The cylinder heads are integral to the engine’s efficiency and power delivery. The specifications include:

• Combustion Chamber Volume:
  • Intake: 94.7 cc
  • Exhaust: 97.7 cc
• Valve Guide Bore Diameter: 0.002″
• Valve Seat Width:
  • Intake: 0.060″
  • Exhaust: 0.060″
• Gasket Surface Flatness: Service limit — 0.005

Valve Rocker Arm and Tappet Specifications:

• Rocker Arm Lift Ratio: 1.73:1
• Push Rod Runout: Maximum 0.015″
• Valve Tappet (Lifter) Clearance: 0.007-0.002″
• Hydraulic Lifter Leakdown Rate: 10 to 50 seconds for 1/16″ travel

Valve Spring Specifications: An effective valve spring is critical for performance, and the specifications are:

• Compression Pressure at Specified Height:
  • Intake: 76-84 lbs
  • Exhaust: 76-84 lbs
• Free Length:
  • Intake: 2.05 inches
  • Exhaust: 2.06 inches
• Maximum Out of Square: 1/64″ (0.078″)

Valve Details: Understanding the valve mechanism is vital for engine functionality:

• Valve Stem to Guide Clearance: 0.0010-0.0027″
• Valve Head Diameter:
  • Intake: 2.075-2.090″
  • Exhaust: 1.645-1.660″
• Valve Face Angle: 44 degrees

Final Thoughts: The Ford 460 V-8 gas engine is a powerhouse, revered for its robust construction and high performance. Whether you’re a car enthusiast looking to enhance your street performance or a builder aiming for a reliable workhorse, the specifications of the 460 provide the foundation for building an impressive powerplant.

Incorporating upgrades and specialized components can further enhance the capabilities of this engine, allowing it to meet various performance needs. Understanding these specifications can help in making informed decisions about maintenance and performance improvements, ensuring longevity and reliability.

For anyone interested in engines and automotive performance, the Ford 460 V-8 remains an engine worth exploring, embodying a blend of power and engineering excellence that stands the test of time.