360 FE common issues?

[Youngfordkid]

Hello all,

We recently purchased a ‘70 with a 360 and I was wondering what are some of the common issues with this engine? I’m familiar with the 240-300s, and flathead fords, but the FE series is new to me. I’ve noticed the oil pressure seems to be a little low, and I’m fighting the auto choke trying to get it adjusted and working like it should. Other than a exhaust leak on the manifold, it runs well. I’m planning on dualing out the exhaust, to help it breath a little better.

This truck is mainly for my wife, and she’s never driven anything older than a 2000, so manual chokes and what not are something I’m trying to avoid.

Thanks!

[Ohiotinkerer]

I can't help with the choke or oil pressure but the manifold leak I've had to deal with - seems to be a common FE problem. If you're gonna stick with the stock manifolds have them surfaced and reinstall them with a set of Remflex 3022 gaskets. I had mine done and still had a slight leak and those gaskets took care of it........

[Lee]

Speaking of manifolds and common FE problems,...... Another is the breaking off of the bolts that hold the exhaust manifolds on,... Especially the top one on each port.... He very careful removing these.... Soak with penetrating oil,.... If still tight try heading with a torch.

Lee

[Ohiotinkerer]

Almost forgot that - but try a 50/50 mix of acetone and ATF........soaked mine for 3 days and they came right out but it you come from a state where they use salt in the winter you're gonna have to really be careful......don't get in a hurry either way......

[timachone]

Broke one off recently... The head of the bolt was already done so it was too difficult to bring it out safely. Will have to drill it out now. "Luckily" it is a front top one which could be easily reached with an angle drill. On some more I had more luck but there are some left - will try the heat method on the "ears" now...

From what I heard this is the most common FE issue...

[Mach428]

The FE is a workhorse and extremely good engine. Oil pressure is commonly low but the engine is well oiled anyway so no big deal. The choke is not specific to an FE but you need a good choke spring and hot air tube. Once those are in place, you should be good to go. The Autolite 2100 is an EXCELLENT carburetor too