I've got a chance to pick up an early model (67), low milage, good running 390 engine and trans, cheap. Unfortunately, from what I've researched, Ford didn't provide any ID or coding to specifically indicate what C.I.D. any particular FE engine is. So, short of pulling a head and measuring bore & stroke, is there any way of telling if the engine definately is a 390, and not a 352 or other FE boat anchor? The guy selling the motor said he pulled it from a 67 Galaxie and he said it looked like the original motor, and the owner of the car claimed it was the original motor, but Galaxies also came with 352s The car is no longer available, so any claim that it was wearing 390 badging or emission stickers is by word of the guy selling me the motor, and though generally trustworthy, for a cash sell, he might "remember" seeing 390 badges that weren't there. On the plus side, but not proof, the air cleaner looks original for the motor, and has a "390 4V" decal .
Best way to tell is the stamp on the crank. Its been a while but I think a "TU" stamp is a 390. Im sure you could quickly google cranks stamps for FE motors, or 390 crank stamp or something and find it. I had it in a book we have at my dads place. But pulling the oil pan is much easier than pulling a head on these heavy ass things. The intake manifold weighs more than one of the heads.
