383/430 Block

Are you wanting to keep your BIRD numbers correct?

Yes as close as possible considering the lack of parts. Right now I need a Cruise-O-Matic tranny mount and the one used with the 430 is different than the one used with the 352 and I can't find one since there were only 3,100 of the J-Birds made in 1959.

If I could find a casting number book for my Bird I'd like to buy it. I have a few that were included in my Ford Parts Interchange Book but I'd like more detailed info.

I checked the motor mounts and the 383 block has them in the front just above the oil filter and generator with 5 inch center bolts. That's tha same place as the 430 has and my 430 mounts look like they will fit.

I will have a few extra parts for sale later on after my car is complete. I have the stock 1958 carb with the left side vacuum diaphram and a box full of old Lincoln AFB parts. I have a stock 430 59 T-Bird carb for parts that is incomplete.

I have a 61 Lincoln C1VE water pump with pulleys and too many smaller parts to mention. Now with the Merc MEL engine I can add a 383 crank and pistons w/pins to the used parts list. I plan to keep everything I can use for the 430 even if the numbers are not correct. I thought of decompressing the 430 to 5 or 6 to 1 by adding the 383 crank and pistons then supercharging it but changed my mind and will keep it stock.

If you or any fellow MEL fans need parts send me an email and I'll see it I can help. Remove the X from the email address before you send it though. Make sure to add a subject line that will catch my eye like MEL PARTS NEEDED

Best wishes and thanks again for the help. Feel free to cross post my info to Merc/Edsel/Lincoln groups of you wish. If I can help spmeone out I will and at a fair price for parts.

david@rhyner.comX

Dave Rhyner