This article explores the ambitious project of building a custom 4-valve Ford V10 engine using a 6.8L V10 block as the foundation. The project involves fabricating custom cylinder heads and tackling the challenge of sourcing or creating Ford V10 Camshafts suitable for this unique setup. The build is documented in a series of YouTube videos showcasing the progress and challenges encountered.
The initial stages of the project focused on welding the 4-valve V10 cylinder heads. Subsequent videos detail the process of line boring the heads and porting and polishing them. Bronze valve guides were installed, and the heads were sent to a machine shop for further work.
One of the significant challenges in this build is the Ford V10 camshaft. Due to the different lobe separation requirements of the 4-valve configuration compared to the original 2-valve design, using existing 2V camshaft cores and modifying them isn’t feasible. The builders explored options like using custom ground 2V cores, but the lobe separation discrepancy made this approach impossible.
The solution likely requires custom-made camshaft cores. The builders are investigating local companies specializing in custom camshaft core fabrication and will potentially consult with renowned camshaft manufacturers like COMP Cams to explore possibilities. Welding multiple 4-valve camshafts together was considered a last resort.
Beyond the Ford V10 camshaft conundrum, the project also involves designing and 3D printing a prototype intake manifold. The manifold fabrication is a multi-stage process encompassing machining, cutting, grinding, and welding aluminum components.
The completed intake manifold features custom-fabricated “trumpets,” showcasing the builders’ dedication to detail and performance. The project aims to improve upon the performance characteristics of the standard 2V and 3V 6.8L V10 engines. The builders also plan to upgrade the rotating assembly for increased power handling capabilities. The specifics of the rotating assembly components will be detailed in upcoming videos.
This ambitious undertaking demonstrates the ingenuity and dedication required to transform a standard Ford V10 into a high-performance 4-valve engine. The challenges encountered, particularly with the Ford V10 camshaft, highlight the intricacies of engine building and the importance of precise engineering. The project continues to progress, and future updates will reveal the final outcome of this remarkable build.
