Big Block Ford Exhaust Header Gasket M6049 A460/B460 Cylinder Head

For enthusiasts aiming to extract the maximum performance from Big Block Ford engines, the selection of the right A460 or B460 cylinder heads, along with compatible gaskets, is vital.

Overview of A460 and B460 Cylinder Heads

The A460 and B460 cylinder heads are designed specifically for high-performance competition, particularly in Big Block Ford engines. Their unique engineering features include:

Raised Square/Rectangle Port Design: Unlike stock heads with round intake ports, the A460 and B460 heads possess a raised square/rectangle port configuration. This design significantly enhances airflow, which is crucial for maximizing engine performance in competitive environments.
Durability and Material: Crafted from 356-T6 aluminum, these heads ensure both durability and heat resistance, making them suitable for demanding racing conditions.

Key Features of A460 and B460 Heads:

Valve Angles: 7.5 degrees for intake and 8.0 degrees for exhaust without side cant, promoting effective airflow.
Port Dimensions: Minimum bore size of 4.500″, with 4.600″ recommended to optimize performance.
Valve Diameters: 2.450″ for intake and 1.900″ for exhaust, allowing for better air and fuel flow.
Combustion Chamber: 65cc wedge-style chamber, specifically designed for competition, enhancing power output.

Compatibility and Fitment of A460 and B460 Cylinder Heads

To ensure optimal performance with A460 and B460 cylinder heads, several compatibility aspects must be considered. These include custom intake and header requirements, gasket considerations, and port size specifications.

Custom Intake and Header Requirements

Intakes: Utilizing dedicated A460 intakes is essential for maximizing airflow and power output. These intakes are specifically designed to match the unique port configurations of the A460 heads.

Headers: Standard Big Block Chevy headers will not fit A460 or B460 heads due to differences in port spacing and bolt patterns. Modified Big Block Chevy headers or custom-built headers are necessary to accommodate these cylinder heads properly. Earlier A460 heads had a 4.9 BBF bore spacing, while newer models have a 4.84 spacing, which allows for the use of unmodified BBC header gaskets, simplifying installation.

Gasket Considerations

The A460 and B460 heads require specialized gaskets to ensure a proper seal due to their unique port configurations:

Exhaust Gaskets: The FEL-PRO Exhaust Manifold/Header Gasket is a popular choice, specifically designed for Big Block Ford engines with rectangular port layouts. This gasket ensures reliable sealing under high-performance conditions.

Header Gasket Compatibility: It’s crucial to select a header gasket that matches the specific port layout of your cylinder head. This is especially important because earlier A460 heads may require modifications to fit Big Block Chevy gaskets, whereas newer heads can utilize standard BBC gaskets without modifications.

Port Size Considerations

Exhaust Port Locations: Each A460 head may have different exhaust port locations, making it necessary to choose a header gasket that fits the specific configuration of your cylinder head for an effective seal.

Port Measurements: The minimum height and width of the respective intake ports can vary significantly among different cylinder head types. For instance, the A460 heads typically feature larger ports compared to standard models, enhancing airflow capabilities but necessitating careful matching with intakes and headers.

Achieving the best performance from A460 and B460 cylinder heads involves careful consideration of custom intake and header requirements, specialized gasket choices, and precise port size matching. Understanding these compatibility aspects is crucial for optimizing engine performance in high-performance applications.

Specialized Gaskets for A460 and B460 Heads

Various gaskets are available specifically for Big Block Ford A460 and B460 heads:

Fel-Pro Header Gasket (FEL1422): Designed for Big Block Ford engines with rectangular ports measuring 1.960 x 1.870 inches, featuring steel core laminate construction for enhanced durability.
Alternative High-Quality Options: Options like Percy’s “Seal 4 Good” are known for their flexibility and reliability, although specific part numbers may vary with different head configurations.

Material Choices for Performance

Consider gasket materials that offer excellent sealing and durability in high-performance conditions:

Compressible Copper Gaskets: Available from SCE, these gaskets provide exceptional sealing capabilities.
Graphite Composite Gaskets: Incorporating a steel core, these offer reliable performance under extreme conditions.

Sourcing Header Gaskets

When selecting header gaskets for Big Block Ford engines with M6049 A460 or B460 cylinder heads, consider the following:

Key Specifications:

Port Height: 1.96 inches
Port Width: 1.87 inches
Port Style: Rectangular
Material: Steel core laminate
Availability: Obtainable at Gearhead Solutions and other auto parts retailers.

Compatibility Considerations

Ensure the gasket aligns perfectly with the specific exhaust port location and exit configuration for your A460 or B460 head, as these can vary between models.

Installation Considerations for Header Gaskets on A460 and B460 Heads

When installing header gaskets on A460 or B460 cylinder heads, several essential tips should be followed to ensure a successful and effective installation.

Port Configuration and Bore Spacing

Accurate Cutting: It is crucial to cut the header gasket accurately to match the port configuration and bore spacing of the A460 or B460 heads. These heads typically feature a rectangular port size of “1.96 inches by 1.87 inches”.

Bore Spacing: Early A460 heads may have a “4.9-inch bore spacing”, while later versions adopt a “4.84-inch spacing”. This change allows compatibility with standard Big Block Chevy (BBC) header gaskets, simplifying the installation process.

Gasket Material and Sealing

Durable Gasket Options: For high-performance applications, using “steel core laminate gaskets” is recommended due to their durability and effective sealing capabilities under high temperatures and pressures. These gaskets provide a robust seal that withstands the rigors of racing conditions.

Bolts and Studs: It is important to use appropriate bolts and studs for secure installation. A recommended option is the “Cylinder Head Stud Kit for Ford 460 SVO aluminum heads (M-6049-A460, M-6049-B460)”, which ensures a strong connection and optimal gasket seal.

Cleanliness and Neatness

Preparation: Before installation, thoroughly clean the mating surfaces of both the cylinder heads and headers to prevent any debris from compromising the gasket seal.

Sealing Enhancements: Many users prefer using “SCE compressible copper gaskets” or “Permatex Ultra Gray” for improved sealing performance and cleanliness during installation. These materials can enhance the overall effectiveness of the gasket by filling minor imperfections in the surfaces.

By following these installation considerations, you can ensure that your header gaskets are installed correctly on A460 or B460 heads, leading to optimal performance and reliability in your engine setup.

Maintenance and Replacement Recommendations for A460/B460 Cylinder Heads

To extend the lifespan and maintain optimal performance of A460 and B460 cylinder heads, adhering to specific maintenance practices is essential. Here are the key recommendations:

Regular Inspections

Frequent Checks: Conduct regular inspections of the cylinder heads for signs of wear, corrosion, or leaks, particularly around the gasket area. Early detection of issues can prevent serious performance complications.

Correct Gasket Alignment

Proper Installation: Ensure that gaskets are aligned correctly during installation. Misalignment can lead to leaks and necessitate costly replacements. A snug fit is crucial for maintaining integrity.

Use Quality Parts

High-Quality Components: Always opt for high-quality gaskets and bolts. Steel-core laminate gaskets are recommended due to their durability under high temperatures. Using reliable installation tools and techniques is critical to achieving a secure fit.

Temperature Control

Cooling System Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the cooling system, as excessive heat can warp or crack aluminum heads. Maintaining appropriate temperature levels is vital for ensuring longevity and performance.

Lubrication and Cleanliness

Regular Oil Changes: Perform regular oil changes using high-performance oil to minimize wear on engine components. Keeping installation surfaces clean is equally important to ensure proper gasket adherence, avoiding contaminants that could lead to gasket failure.

Periodic Torque Checks

Re-Tightening Bolts and Studs: Regularly re-tighten bolts and studs to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. This practice helps prevent gasket blowouts and maintains pressure between the head and engine block.

By following these maintenance practices and utilizing high-quality components, you can maximize the lifespan and performance of A460/B460 cylinder heads. These heads are designed to withstand the demands of high-performance racing and heavy-duty applications, providing reliability and power when it matters most.

For those working with Big Block Ford M6049-A460/B460 cylinder heads and exhaust header gaskets, several valuable resources and insights can enhance your understanding and ensure successful installation and performance. Here’s a comprehensive overview:

Gasket Specifications

Dimensions: The exhaust header gaskets for Big Block Ford M6049-A460, B460, and C460 heads typically measure 1.960 x 1.870 inches with a rectangular port design. Ensuring you have the correct gasket size is crucial for preventing leaks and maintaining performance.

Cylinder Head Insights

Construction: The M-6049-A460 heads are made from 356-T6 aluminum, which provides excellent strength-to-weight ratios. They feature bronze valve guides and high-quality valve seat inserts, making them suitable for high-performance applications.
Compatibility: These heads require specific intake manifolds and are compatible with modified BBC headers, allowing for enhanced airflow and performance in racing or modified vehicles.
Performance Metrics: The A460 heads are designed to maximize airflow, with impressive flow numbers of 522 cfm on the intake side and 344 cfm on the exhaust side when equipped with 2.500-inch intake valves and 1.830-inch exhaust valves. This level of airflow is essential for high-performance applications.

Community Forums

Engagement: Online forums such as the 460 Ford Forum are excellent resources for connecting with other enthusiasts and professionals who have experience with these specific cylinder heads and gaskets. Engaging in discussions can provide practical tips, troubleshooting advice, and shared experiences that can be invaluable during installation or modifications.

Installation Tips

Quality Components: When installing cylinder heads, it is advisable to use high-quality cylinder head stud kits from reputable brands like ARP. These studs ensure a secure fit, helping to maintain proper torque and prevent issues related to head gasket failure.
Preparation: Before installation, ensure that all surfaces are clean and free of debris. Consider having the cylinder heads surfaced to ensure a perfect seal with the gaskets.
Torque Specifications: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications for head bolts to avoid warping the heads or damaging the block during installation.

Additional Resources

Installation Instructions: Refer to detailed installation instructions specific to the M-6010-A460 cylinder block, which outline critical steps such as verifying head gasket/block/cylinder head steam hole locations and ensuring proper oiling system configurations.
Performance Gasket Options: Explore performance gasket options from manufacturers like Fel-Pro, which offer reliable sealing solutions under demanding conditions often encountered in motorsports.

By leveraging these resources, you can enhance your Big Block Ford engine’s performance and reliability, whether on the track or the road. Understanding specifications, engaging with the community, and following best practices during installation will contribute significantly to your engine’s success.