Y-BLOCK TECHNICAL INFORMATION
This information is provided to help Y-Block owners identify the engine or parts they have, avoid assembly errors and choose the best parts for their next project. The Y-Block was introduced in 1954 as 239 in Ford cars and trucks and 256 in Mercury's.
The 272 and 292 engines were introduced in 1955. The 292 was used in T-Bird's, Mercury's and some top of the line Ford's. Most standard Ford models received the 272. The 312 was introduced in 1956 and used in many T-Bird's all Mercury's and some Ford models. Performance peaked in 1957 with improved distributors, larger exhaust manifolds, improved intake manifold and modern Holley carburetor. Heads got larger intake valves, higher compression and improved ports. The Y-Block was de-tuned every year after 1957 although the big valve heads were retained through 1959.
The following lists will help you identify the parts on your engine.
ASSEMBLY ERRORS Most common assembly mistakes.
BLOCK IDENTIFICATION What block do you have?
CYLINDER HEAD CHART Which heads do you have?
CRANKSHAFT IDENTIFICATION Is it a 312?
ROCKER ARMS How to identify high ratio rockers
ROCKER ARM OILING When your rockers are running dry.
TUNE UP SPECS Firing order, point gap, valve lash
DISPLACEMENT CHART If I bore it .060" what size will it be?
UNDERSTANDING FORD PART NUMBERS
Cut-away of Y-Block. Not historically accurate. Note '55-'56 exhaust manifolds and
heads, later valve covers, air filter, water outlet, intake manifold and rocker arms.