460 headers

[Nick Danger]

I've read several times in these forums that Ford 460 engines are prone to have exhaust manifold leaks or cracked manifolds. As I have a 460 in my 370 LE, how can I tell if I have either of these problems?

Thanks............

[RichardT]

I do not have one, but here are some suggestions.

Look carefully at manifolds for cracks, or black soot coming out around gaskets (use a flashlight) or blue flames shooting out while engine is running (look while it is dark for flames)
Also listen for leaks as they are typically loud and will pop when you rev a little and back off.

I hope this points you in the right direction to find your answer.
Richardt

[74Argosy24MH]

Richardt is right on, especially listen. It will have a popping sound that is very obvious.

Ford and Chevy both have this problem, it is more the design of the body covering the engine than the acutal engine, there isn't the airflow that they need. If you are running it hard (nearly any time considering the weight) let it idle to cool down for 3-5 minutes before shutting it off. I usually take a slow walk around, check the tires, toad hookup, etc. while it cools. If just a quick 10 minute break at a rest area, checking in at the campground, etc., I don't even shut it off.

John

[ALANSD]

good advice John- I do that with my older P car and it has ...I feel...made a difference in the life of that air cooled engine.
The manifold leak I hear in my 454 is a ticking type sound coming from up front. Not bad, but bad enough in mine to burn my spark plug wire on the plug above it.