Flawebmaster

I am building a 390 FE for my 1957 Ford Custom. I have a nice 390 block and a set of 428 CJ heads. In the past, I would have used TRW flat top pistons with 4 valve slots. These days, I'm not so sure. Any recommendations? I live in Florida and 10% of the gas is alcohol. Thanks!

kdtrucker

I would'nt be so much concerned with the pistons as much as the 10% Alcohol in the gas. For the most part it may not do to much harm to your engine, but if the gas delivery guy didn't make sure it was 10% or less you will be having problems.

Alcohol atracts water for one, and that's not good for your engine, it also starts cleaning your tank and that rust and soot end up in your filter or in the carb. You did say your building a 57 Ford...are you using the old factory tank? After it cleans your equipment it stars to corrode and mess up the works. Remember I'm talking extremes, and always burn it out quick as you can, Or drain the tank if it starts to run really bad.

If your building a car to race at the track alcohol is fine, just set up the engine to handle it. If it's for the street, just be mindfull of the alcohol, like I said it'll probably be just fine, alcohol is crap shoot if not metered properly.

Flawebmaster

Thanks for the reply. I am using a new gas tank and all new lines. I am concerned about the compression ratio. According to the specs I have, the CJ heads have from 72.8 to 75.8 ccs. I really should cc the heads and find out what I have... If I run TRW flat tops (L2291s) will I have a problem using Florida pump premium gas? Thanks again.