Vehicle Description
Designed by an aircraft engineer in 1983, this truck is an amazing
piece of lasting engineering. The power plant is a Thunderbird
E-code 312ci Y-block that was bored .030 over to 318ci, then fitted
with forged TRW pistons creating 8.5:1 compression, forged crank
and rods, Schneider camshaft, and ported and bench-flowed heads.
Air and fuel are delivered through a Carter 750 cfm carburetor and
a Garrett T3 turbocharger with an Edelbrock Vara-jection
water-injection system keeping everything cool internally. Ignition
is provided by an MSD controller with separate MSD manual boost
retarder. The exhaust is wrapped to and from the turbo to keep the
engine bay cool and sent out the side through a Flowmaster muffler.
Mated to the engine is a 15-speed transmission consisting of 12
forward gears and 3 reverse. It starts out with a 4-speed top
loader synchromesh manual transmission mated to a divorced
auxiliary 3-speed transmission linked to a 9" limited-slip
differential. For longevity, the engine oil capacity was increased
and dual remote oil filters were added, along with a 4-core
radiator, low oil pressure warning system, and a full array of
gauges, including boost and exhaust temperatures. Stopping power is
provided by a disc brake conversion in the front and adjustable
proportioning valve. The exterior features a well-earned patina
that has been wet-sanded and polished. It's been updated with
period-correct American Racing Wheels with new tires, and the
factory Ford Steelie wheels with hubcaps are included. The only
hint of the power this truck has are the dual aluminum hood scoops
and larger side-exiting exhaust. The interior has been updated with
a custom bench seat and headliner. The original build documents and
service records are included, and all hoses, belts, fluids and
filters have been recently serviced.
