KULTULZ

 

bradford

Yeah thanx,I found that Site...But I get bombarded with Add's and all rubbish tries to Download onto my Computer whenever I Visit there!!!

KULTULZ

I understand. The host of the site sucks.

What can I answer directly to help you guys?

bradford

So do you know if it is true that the MEL Engines are related to the Ford Super Duty 401-477-534 Truck Engines???If so how much do they have in common???Thanx!!!

KULTULZ

They have very little in common other than both being plank head engines.

In 1958, FORD introduced three new engine series, the FE (FORD-EDSEL) (332/352/361), the MEL (MERCURY-EDSEL-LINCOLN) (383-410-430 and 462 in 1966) and the SUPER DUTY truck engines (401-477-534).

These are extremely large and heavy engines rated at low RPM for heavy truck useage only (before diesel became the preferred engine type). They also have a provision in the side skirt to accept an air compressor, so automotive use is not an option. No interchange, although there is some interchange between the FE and MEL.

-Introduction To MEL Engines-

A 534 SD;

bradford

Man...that Water Pump look's more like a Turbo Charger or something???

bradford

Also,thanx for the Link to the MEL Engine info...It was very interesting and enlightening !!!

LeMansGT40

Thanks KULTULZ for the information.. you seem to be one of the few people in the world who know about these engines... the problem for me as an Aussie is that if I want to do up a MEL engine I have a limited range of aftermarket/factory parts because they are a US only engine... we didn't really get many FE's here but at least I can obtain parts for them... does an FE inlet manifold fit, also what about HEI ignition on a factory FE distributor....cheers!

bradford

I do not believe the Inlet Manifolds will interchange,as an FE Inlet Manifold has the Pushrod's running directly through it,and both Valve Cover's actually bolt directly to the Inlet Manifold as I have already explained before.These features seem to be unique to the FE Engine and from the Pictures I have seen of MEL Engines,they do not seem to run the same Set Up,inwich case the Inlets will be completely differant??

KULTULZ

Sorry. I have not checked this board in a few days. As mentioned, the intake manifolds between the two series are unique. The only OEM performance intake made for the MEL was the SUPER MARAUDER 3X2 system used in 1958. The rest were aftermarket (3X2-6x2-HILLBORN, etc. There was no aluminum 4V intake offered. I have yet to see an 8V which I have two reports of being available.


Reportedly, the distributor is interchangeable (just watch for gear pitch).

As for HEI, that is a GM term. FORD had the DURASPARK II system which when coupled to a TFI coil will outfire the HEI. Look for a DURASPARK II distributor from a mid-seventies pickup with a 360/390.

I read also on an earlier post about cylinder heads in the later Slab Side LINC. The engine was basically the same between 58/60 (except it went to 2V in 1960). In 1961, LINC lowered the hoodline and as a result had to use an intake with a lower carb pad. The heads were also cast with smaller runners and valves.

Also, the valvetrain is interchangeable between the MEL and FE, i.e. you can use FE rollers lifters (with correct cam hardness) as well as FE adjustible rocker arms (this will also allow aftermarket roller rocker arms).

Most anything you need to know (including detailed photographs) can be found on the MEL Engine Site. Any questions, please feel free to ask.