What compression ratio on OMC 5.8L Ford?

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gts95

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Can someone help me...I'm trying to find out what compression ratio my 1997 model OMC 5.8L Cobra (the 285hp version) Ford has? It came out of a 1997 21ft Baja. I'd also love to find out what cc the combustion chambers in the heads are. If anyone knows of a website out there that has technical info on these engines that would be great! Did these engines come with "heavier duty" parts than say there automotive counterparts? Forged rods, steel crank, 4bolt mains, those type of things? Thanks for any tips!
 
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BayStLouis

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Re: What compression ratio on OMC 5.8L Ford?

I can't help with the specifications on that Ford 5.8, except to say that it probably has 2-bolt main bearing caps. I don't think Ford ever cast a 351 Windsor block with 4-bolt mains. Your engine was built around the time that the 5.8-equipped F-150 "Lightning" pickups were offered, so there may be some Ford enthusiasts out there who can help. Try the engine forums on http://www.corral.net and http://www.stangnet.com - both are good places to ask about your engine. You might also contact Dave Williams... http://www.angelfire.com/ar/dw42/index.html, he's got more Ford engine knowledge than the average gearhead. If he can't give you a very detailed answer, he'll know who you should ask.<br /><br />Hope this stuff helps.<br /><br />- BSL
 
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kev_79

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Re: What compression ratio on OMC 5.8L Ford?

I am a chevy man, and just by experience, that engine that you have is probably based on an older model Ford motor. It is a 351, but I wouldn't expect it to be like the one's that were put in the 1997 Ford pickups. Probably based on a motor built in mid 80's to early 90's. Usually the only time they beef up an engine, forged pistons, steel crank, etc. is in a heavy duty application. They guys at fordmotors.com might be able to give you a hand though. Good Luck
 
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fone_man

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Re: What compression ratio on OMC 5.8L Ford?

go to the source.... http://www.fordpowerproducts.com/ <br /><br />
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<br /><br />------------------<br />"Keep It Between The Bouys" & "Good Luck"!!!<br /><br />fone_man
 
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BayStLouis

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Re: What compression ratio on OMC 5.8L Ford?

Another thought on that 5.8 Ford:<br /><br />The late production 351 Windsor (5.8) engines were different from earlier versions in only one very important way. While the 5.0/302 was fitted with hydraulic roller-type valve lifters beginning in 1985, the 351 continued to use the older "flat" hydraulic lifters. The very last 351Ws *did* use the roller lifters, possibly from 1995 on. It's important to know whether or not you have a billet steel roller-lifter camshaft, or the older cast iron type. The two are not interchangeable. Talk to a mechanic who works on them, he'll know.
 
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gts95

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Re: What compression ratio on OMC 5.8L Ford?

Yes, this one is a roller lifter block...I've actually already installed a roller lifter cam in it. Also, I think I forgot to mention its a "Cobra"....I think thats what OMC designated some of their marine Fords. I've had a couple of responses tell me its either 8.3 to 1 or 8.5 to 1. thanks for the tips!
 
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fone_man

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Re: What compression ratio on OMC 5.8L Ford?

Cobra... if I am correct is what they call their outdrive... like Merc calls it a "Bravo or Alpha One"... various powerplants use the Cobra outdrive.... Sorry to burst your bubble... Not a Mustang!!!<br /><br />Always, thought the "cleveland" 351 was a better engine but I guess the "Windsor" is all they produce anymore... They also moved Ford Power Products which is subsidary which distributes engines for marine, industrial, etc. to ATL... I gave you thier website & I would email them for the specs on your engine but get you engine ID before doing so!!!<br /><br />
cool.gif
<br /><br />------------------<br />"Keep It Between The Bouys" & "Good Luck"!!!<br /><br />fone_man
 
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