Early 2.8 block vs truck 2.8 block

[MikeH]

Is there any difference in the size of the main bearings between the Mustang II block and the Ranger block. Looking up part numbers at various auto parts places, a different part number is used for the auto block than the truck block. The truck block mains have the same part number as the 2.9 block. Is the only difference in that the early blocks used thrust washers and the later used flanged bearings or does this mean that if I want to do the 2.9 crank conversion that I need the truck block instead of the Mustang block?

 

[V6 JOSE]

Hi Mike,

The only two differences between the two blocks, are the size of the cam bearing journals, and the use of thrust washers in the early 2.8's. You can use the 2.9 crank in the early block, without any problems. You will need to use the thrust washers with the early block though.

Jose

Is there any difference in the size of the main bearings between the Mustang II block and the Ranger block. Looking up part numbers at various auto parts places, a different part number is used for the auto block than the truck block. The truck block mains have the same part number as the 2.9 block. Is the only difference in that the early blocks used thrust washers and the later used flanged bearings or does this mean that if I want to do the 2.9 crank conversion that I need the truck block instead of the Mustang block?

 

[MikeH]

Thanks Jose,

Now can you help me find the casting numbers. An article I've found says it's on the left side, can't find it. All I can find is a big "E" next to the distributor and "12M" below it. I'd like to be sure which block I have.

Thanks
Mike