Hi all,

I was wondering what all is interchangable on my 272 y block, I really want to build a 312 down the road but if I buy parts now what will work on both motors? Biggest questions are heads and intake? I know there is alot of info when it comes to this but also wondering about when guys speak of stroker cranks? I understand the mechanicals of everything and how it works, just unsure what to buy.

Thanks for the help!

P.S. lots more questions to come

Hmmmm.... The short answer is that if you don't have a '54 239 cu. in. Ford or '54 256 cu. in. Mercury y-block, everything will interchange from 1955 to 1964! There are a couple nuances like using the correct length pushrods with the cylinder heads that you're using... and some 'things' are better than others like later mechanical & vacuum advance distributors than the '55 and '56 Loadomatic vacuum only advance distributors.



If you're not already aware of it, an excellent primer is to Google John Mummert's web site www.ford-y-block.com John has compiled a boat load of helpful information for others to reference and utilize. After opening that website, scroll down to the table titled, 'Information Center'. In that table, toggle the heading 'Technical Information'. After that opens up, go down the list of topics and toggle the heading, 'Parts to Look For'.



The info on this page will give you insight as to what ORIGINAL FoMoCo parts can yield you optimum results.



Where a problem often arises is in accurately identifying what YOU ultimately want from the engine you are going to assemble. Example: IF you really plan to operate below 4,000 r.pm. in using the engine, you don't have to have John Mummert's aluminum cylinder heads or his aluminum intake manifold.



On the other end of the scale, IF you really want to build a maximum horsepower y-block, you should probably seriously consider starting with a 272/292 engine block and having the mains, rear seal area, and oil slinger of a 312 crankshaft turned down to 272/292 dimensions so that you can use that in the 272/292 block and avoid the likelihood of developing cracks in the main bearing webbing area of an original 312 block.



The problem that sometimes arises in building an engine is 'getting lost' as you proceed. Example: Selecting the wrong camshaft for your combination of components can leave you with an engine that sounds awesome at idle, but won't perform satisfactorily for stop-and-go street drive-ability and throttle response. Putting the wrong size carburetor on an engine for the combination of components you are using is another example of what can torpedo throttle response, drive-ability, and overall operating performance.



The amazing thing about this Forum is the treasure trove of useful information that is available to members using the Search function. The other great thing is the willingness of Forum members to share their actual experiences in having done various modifications or combinations of modifications.



Back to your original question. For more helpful input from Forum members, tell us what you're trying to accomplish. Are you looking to assemble a grocery-getter, street/highway use vehicle, street/strip combination, or race only application. Also, what transmission are you you looking to use.



Welcome to a great website.



Regards,


NoShortcuts
a.k.a. Charlie Brown
near Syracuse, New York

Thanks for all that info.

I am wanting a good reliable strong street motor. Not looking to set any records just something that is strong enough to run good when I want to take it to the track. Wanting to stick with a single 4 barrell intake. My 272 is orig to my car so I do not want to do anything to it. Was looking for a 312, but from what you are saying I will look more at 292s. Also thinking about a 4 speed trans. autos are boring and a 3 speed I dont have to shift enough!!!! I've been on Johns website and, sorry to say, I have not made it past looking at all the shiny alluminum pieces!!!! Will dig into his tech section more and read as much I can. I will more than likely have more questions the more I read.

Thanks again

4thgen57

It it were me I would at the minimum build a 292. G heads, mild cam, '57 intake and 500 Holley. '57 distributor with Pentrox. Headers could be added later. A 5 speed would be more practical. 312 would be better. Definately ballance any engine you build.

Many of the heads and intake manifolds for the 1955 and up Y’s will interchange within the Y Block family of engines.  292 cranks are a direct interchange with the 272 pieces and so are the connecting rods.  A 272 is essentially a small bore 292.  While it would be nice to start out with a 292 block, all the performance enhancements that are performed to the 292/312 engines can also be applied to the 272 engines.  This includes using the 312 crankshaft for an immediate stroke increase if so inclined.  With the multitude of 256 and 272 blocks I have sitting on hand, I’m looking at these as the basis for some performance and replacement engine builds.  With the emphasis on fuel economy, the smaller sized engines do have an advantage from this point of view and with the use of some modern technology applied during the builds, power levels from the smaller sized engines can be significant.  With this in mind, the 272 should not be discounted for a daily driver engine build.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

If you get similar specific output as you did with Gary's engine, that makes about a 380hp 272 or a 360hp 256. I'd take either, even if they were a little more tame.


Lawrenceville, GA