Anyone have experience with a 390 FE rebuild kit?

Maintenance & Repairs
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Seeking Advice on 390 FE Rebuild Kits

I’m planning to rebuild my Ford 390 FE engine and I’m hitting a bit of a wall when it comes to finding the right rebuild kit. I want to ensure that I have everything I need for a successful rebuild, but with so many options out there, it’s a bit overwhelming.

What to Consider in a Rebuild Kit

  • Quality of Parts: I know that the quality of the components can greatly affect performance and longevity. Should I stick to OEM parts, or are there good aftermarket options you recommend?
  • Performance Enhancements: I’m also considering some performance upgrades. What have your experiences been with different kits? Any specific brands that stand out?
  • Cost vs. Value: Some kits are priced way higher than others. Do you think it’s worth spending more on a premium rebuild kit? What should I absolutely not skimp on?

Seeking Recommendations

If anyone has specific rebuild kits they’ve used successfully, please share your insights. I’d love to hear about your builds and what parts you found essential. Also, any tips or tricks you learned during your rebuild process would be immensely helpful!

Thanks in advance for your help!

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I’m currently rebuilding a 390 FE and just ordered a rebuild kit from Sealed Power. I’ve heard good things about their quality and compatibility with OEM parts.

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I second that! Sealed Power has always delivered for me. Quality components make all the difference.

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Has anyone tried the Master Engine Rebuilders kit? I’m curious about its performance enhancements compared to OEM.

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I looked at the Master Engine Rebuilders kit, but I was hesitant due to some mixed reviews. You never know what you’re going to get!

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That’s a real concern with some brands. Better to stick with trusted names. Anyone has experience with Speed Pro?

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I’ve used Speed Pro kits before and had good results. Just make sure you double-check compatibility with your specific model.

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Good advice! Compatibility is key. Any tips on where to find that info?

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Check local forums or even parts supplier websites. They often provide a breakdown of what’s compatible with which model.

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I’m really excited to tackle my rebuild but worried if I’ll mess up. Anyone here have funny rebuild fails they can share?

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Oh boy, every project has its hiccups! I once forgot to reattach the oil plug—talk about a mess!

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Sometimes you have to fail to learn, right? But seriously, get a solid manual for your rebuild.

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Great point! Manuals save you from redoing work. What about oil pumps? Do those need upgrading with rebuild kits?

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Definitely consider upgrading the oil pump. A high-volume option can improve performance, especially in a performance rebuild.

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I recently rebuilt my 390 FE using a kit from XYZ Company. The quality was top-notch! Make sure to double-check all clearances before final assembly to avoid any surprises.

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Thanks for sharing! What specific parts did you find most helpful from the kit?

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When using a rebuild kit, I’ve found the gasket quality can vary a lot. Investing in a good gasket set can save a ton of headaches later.

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Absolutely! I learned that the hard way when I had a major leak after just two weeks.

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Don’t forget to torque your bolts in the correct sequence. It’s a small detail but can make a big difference in the longevity of your rebuild!

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Can anyone recommend a good torque wrench? I want to make sure I’m doing it right for my FE rebuild.