427 side oiler ERA 288

[gaiv]

So I bought ERA288 3 1/2 years ago and have been doing a mock up of drive train and chassis. The previous owner had the engine built in 1990. He then let it sit until 2010 and ran the motor, after running the motor he put it up with water and oil still in engine. The water pump was rusted solid and would not turn. I just got the chassis back from powder coating and while I was waiting decided to check out the engine more. I figured out what I have and found a few minor problems and got them straightened out. I have been waiting on our heat wave to cool off some to assemble it. I have put together several engines just not a ford big block. Is there anything I should look out for while assembling this bad boy. If anyone in the Club lives close by and could lend a hand I would be grateful. I also have been looking for a tran-dapt 1015 oil filter bypass. I live in Kerrville. I ordered parts in April for the suspension and latest update from Summit Racing is now second week in August. Getting parts has really suck the last three years. thanks George

 

[bwcobra15]

Hello, George -- good luck with your build. Love ERAs, they make a fine cobra.

 

[Bob Lloyd]

So I bought ERA288 3 1/2 years ago and have been doing a mock up of drive train and chassis. The previous owner had the engine built in 1990. He then let it sit until 2010 and ran the motor, after running the motor he put it up with water and oil still in engine. The water pump was rusted solid and would not turn. I just got the chassis back from powder coating and while I was waiting decided to check out the engine more. I figured out what I have and found a few minor problems and got them straightened out. I have been waiting on our heat wave to cool off some to assemble it. I have put together several engines just not a ford big block. Is there anything I should look out for while assembling this bad boy. If anyone in the Club lives close by and could lend a hand I would be grateful. I also have been looking for a tran-dapt 1015 oil filter bypass. I live in Kerrville. I ordered parts in April for the suspension and latest update from Summit Racing is now second week in August. Getting parts has really suck the last three years. thanks George

George, my supplier shows that 1015 being discontinued. Unless you can find one on the shelf somewhere you'll have to come up with something else.

I'm an experienced engine builder, but I haven't touched an FE in 50 years. You could probably talk me into coming down there to look things over with you one day, especially when the weather cools off some.

Bob

 

[gaiv]

yes that is what I have run into so often with this build, parts being discontinued by manufacturer or not supported any more. It has cost me a pretty penny fixing everything. The car will be badass once I get it together. Ordered new bushings for everywhere and waiting on the other half of the order to ship so I can assembles front end. It's been since April when I order parts. I helped My buddy put together a 428 CJ in the early 70's, high school days. I recently did a 258 then a 302. I got a book and YouTube, several articles on internet. I would welcome anyone who wants to help once it cools off. My big concern is rear main seals. Block is back from shop I took care of some stuff for piece of mind and tore it completely a part so I could figure out what I had.

 

[gaiv]

So I bought ERA288 3 1/2 years ago and have been doing a mock up of drive train and chassis. The previous owner had the engine built in 1990. He then let it sit until 2010 and ran the motor, after running the motor he put it up with water and oil still in engine. The water pump was rusted solid and would not turn. I just got the chassis back from powder coating and while I was waiting decided to check out the engine more. I figured out what I have and found a few minor problems and got them straightened out. I have been waiting on our heat wave to cool off some to assemble it. I have put together several engines just not a ford big block. Is there anything I should look out for while assembling this bad boy. If anyone in the Club lives close by and could lend a hand I would be grateful. I also have been looking for a tran-dapt 1015 oil filter bypass. I live in Kerrville. I ordered parts in April for the suspension and latest update from Summit Racing is now second week in August. Getting parts has really suck the last three years. thanks George

So I found an adapter plate for the oil system, so the only thing left on it is to get Peter to make my lines. I had to get some block work and crank work done. I had to get crank polished and water jackets soda blasted. I had to order new mains as it appeared something damaged #1 journal and bearing. So I have been taking my time putting it back together as temperatures have been outrageous. Next up is getting a few things powder coated so I can measure clearances on new clutch system. My steering wheel finally arrive from UK so that finishes steering system. I am waiting on cooler weather to bond body to frame and get it properly mounted. I thought some of you might like to see some pictures.

 

[gaiv]

So I bought ERA288 3 1/2 years ago and have been doing a mock up of drive train and chassis. The previous owner had the engine built in 1990. He then let it sit until 2010 and ran the motor, after running the motor he put it up with water and oil still in engine. The water pump was rusted solid and would not turn. I just got the chassis back from powder coating and while I was waiting decided to check out the engine more. I figured out what I have and found a few minor problems and got them straightened out. I have been waiting on our heat wave to cool off some to assemble it. I have put together several engines just not a ford big block. Is there anything I should look out for while assembling this bad boy. If anyone in the Club lives close by and could lend a hand I would be grateful. I also have been looking for a tran-dapt 1015 oil filter bypass. I live in Kerrville. I ordered parts in April for the suspension and latest update from Summit Racing is now second week in August. Getting parts has really suck the last three years. thanks George

Found something new out, the oil galley plugs on a 427 are special ford threads. I now have one on order as one went missing at machine shop.