Customer Reviews

How to Build Max Performance Ford V-8s on a Budget

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The book covers the classic areas of performance engine building. What differs it from other books is two things: 1. These guys have done theire homework. It is written by experienced enginebuilders, and they know what they are talking about. 2. they are clearly used to work on a budget. They don`t just pick out the most expensive bolt-on parts, but suggest several solutions for the builder who do not have the funds to buy such toys.
Last, they are realistic. No nonsense about 700 HP, but several encouragements to keep it functional. All in all a book worth the money.

I have another of Mr. Reid's books (How to Rebuild the Small Block Ford-Color Edition) which I really enjoyed. This book, however, just didn't really do it for me. It is has large overlap with the above mentioned, and didn't really offer any 'tips & tricks' of budget performance engine building. It does cover a lot of what bolts up to what in the world of factory small block ford components, as well as which factory parts are the best source of power. He also discusses many aftermarket components.

It is possible that I went in with unfair expectations because I also have How to Build Max Performance Chevy Small Blocks on a Budget by David Vizard. Mr. Vizard spends a lot of time discussing where inefficiencies lie in an engine, and how we can overcome them without spending a lot of money. He also offers a lot of tips & tricks that will help squeeze every ounce of power from a CSB. I guess it doesn't really matter that Mr. Reid didn't cover this specifically because the theory applies to any engine, not just CSBs.

Overall it is a fine book. If you already own his other book that I have mentioned, you may realize early on that you are reading something that has already been covered.

This book is a must have for building a small block ford. VERY informative & the authors are Very knowledgeable. I highly advise picking this book up before starting your engine rebuild & buying parts. This book tells you what and what not to buy.

If your'er a novice engine builder looking for some info to get started this is for you. Spend a lot of time on emissions,a sign of the times. Good for understanding the camshaft and its terms.Very general overview of all ford v-8s.

Gives you ideas on what can be used for stock parts for max performance. Lots of casting numbers for reference etc. Over all not a bad book.

There is little formal information about it, that's da reason why I bought it.
Is very educational for domestic mechanic like me, but I did not like the images have no color, that takes part of my time, especially with the polished and application of sealants and adhesives.