D1VE Engine Block Specifications
by Tim McQuade
The D1VE engine block was a part of automotive history. Ford produced the engine for their 385-series engines in the 1970s. This engine series was known for its high output and powerful design, and Ford used the engines in sport cars and trucks. Ford produced the D1VE engine block after the C8VE and D0VE engine block designs.
D1VE Block Information
The D1VE had a production timeline between 1971 and 1978. Ford released multiple versions of the D1VE engine, including D1VE A2A, D1VE AB, and D1VE A2B. To identify the engine-block model, remove the oil pan to find the model number. Ford used the D1VE block casting with either the 429 or 460 engine models; however, do to its efficient design, the D1VE engine block could be stroked to achieve 550 cubic inches of displacement.
D1VE Block Design Features
Compared to some of the other Ford 385-engine series that had a four-bolt main block, the D1VE engine block models featured a two-bolt main block. The D1VE engine block casting used a crankshaft made of cast iron; however, in some instances Ford equipped the D1VE with a different crankshaft to achieve a larger 460 cubic inches. D1VE-A2A engine blocks had a narrow pan rail, while D1VE-AB and D1VE-A2B featured a wider pan rail.
385-series Engine Block Production
Ford manufactured the 385-series engine block in three different ways: the standard, the Cobra Jet and the Boss 429. Ford produced the the D1VE engine block at their Flatrock, Michigan, plant. This plant used the identification code MCC on its engines. Other Ford plants that produced 385-series engine blocks were the CCP, or Cleveland, Ohio, plant, and DIF, or the Dearborn, Michigan, plant. Ford initially produced the engine series at the Dearborn plant, production then moved to Flatrock, and in the late 1970s Ford moved the 385-series engine block production to the Cleveland plant.
Engine Model Specifications
Ford used the D1VE engine block in their 429 and 460 engines. The 429 Cobra Jet featured large cylinder heads that measured 2.08 inches during intake and 1.66 inches during exhaust. The engine had a bore by stroke of 4.38 by 3.59 inches. The engine also had a 1.72-to-1 rocker arm stamped-steel ratio. Ford used Rochester Quadrajet carburetors on the engine. The larger 460 engine had a bore by stroke of 4.38 by 3.85 inches. The intake valve measured 2.08 inches and the exhaust valve measured 1.66 inches. The power output, prior to 1973, was 365 horsepower; after 1972 it was between 210 and 275.
References
Writer Bio
Tim McQuade began writing in 1999. He has worked for two newspapers, including "The Ithaca Times," and has had a short story published. McQuade received a Bachelor of Arts in writing from Ithaca College.
