Ford big-blocks yield an array of performance options. Ford’s “FE” series big-block, for
example, likely has more intake manifold and carburetor choices than any other Blue Oval
powerplant. There are seemingly dozens of iron and aluminum intakes available. In
performance pursuits, we suggest the use of a cast aluminum intake manifold as a means to
weight savings. You can shave a solid 70 pounds off vehicle weight this way with an “FE”
engine. Few will ever know why Ford fitted the 428 Cobra Jet engine with a cast iron manifold
when the lightweight cast aluminum Police Interceptor intake was available off the shelf. Both
are virtually identical intake manifolds.
Though the 429/460 engines came along at the end of the performance era, there were plenty
of induction system options for these engines primarily from the aftermarket. When it comes to
the Boss 429 engine, there are limitless performance pieces for this exotic mill. However, none
of it is cheap and most of it is rare. Some of these pieces are discussed in the following
sections.
332/352/360/361/390/406/410/ 427/428
From a dimensional standpoint, there are approximately ten different manifold applications for
the “FE” series big-blocks. This means there are approximately ten different port sizes. When
you’re choosing an intake manifold, it is wise to pick something compatible with the cylinder
head intake ports. For example, a 390 High Performance intake manifold is a poor choice for
427 High-Riser heads. Always measure manifold and cylinder ports whenever shopping for a
manifold. The cylinder head should always have slightly larger ports than the manifold. This is
normal, because then air flow isn’t disturbed. Port matching is always a good idea in the quest
for power.
We’re going to touch on the more common “FE” intake manifolds from the factory and
aftermarket. It is impossible to mention all because so many were available from both sources.
Obscure types surface all the time at swap meets that we’ve never seen before. Here are a few
of the more common ones
428 Cobra Jet (left) and the 1966-69 390 High
Performance (right). The 390 High Performance
manifold has smaller runners (2.20" x 1.14") with
sharp outside edges. The Cobra Jet intake has
larger runners (2.00" x 1.24") with softer outside
edges.
larger runners (ports) and a
broad-shouldered appearance. This is a
C8OE-9425-G casting from a 1968 Shelby
GT500KR.
C4AE-9425-E was designed only for the
High-Riser heads.
The aftermarket is still alive for “FE” enthusiasts. Weiand and Edelbrock seem to be the
biggest players today. If you’re scouting the swap meets, there are seemingly dozens of
aftermarket manifolds from days of yore. Visit the swap meets and scan the displays to see
what was once available new. If you’re building a period car, it’s often exciting to find an old
cast aluminum Edelbrock, Offenhauser or Weiand high rise from the 1960s that can be media
blasted to look like new. Clear powdercoating can keep it looking new.