A Ford Modular V8 Engine Primer - Web Exclusive

Just position marks and master links together and you are timed.

Tensioners load the chains via engine oil pressure to create tension.

Loading the timing set is easy once you know how. It all boils down to aligning all timing marks, just like a vintage overhead valve V-8.

SOHC heads all look basically the same with some differences. This is a Romeo head with cam journal girdles. It is also a '99-up Power Improved (PI) head.

This girdle design is what makes the Romeo head different from the Windsor head. It gives cam journals stability. By the way, Modular camshafts do not have bearings. They ride on the machined casting.

Windsor heads do not have cam journal girdles. Cam journals or towers stand alone. It has never been proven which is the better head -- Romeo or Windsor.

Romeo and Windsor heads have the same combustion chambers with identical port and valve sizing. This is the PI chamber, which is smaller than the non-PI.

Modular engines have high-tech valvetrains that weigh less and consume less energy because camshafts are composite, basically hollow tubes with lobes pressed on. Smaller valves and springs consume less energy and create less friction. Stamped roller rocker arms can withstand 10,000 rpm although we wouldn't recommend it. These are very durable rocker arms that make less friction.

The '99-up PI head has improved port design and a better chamber. If you're going to spend money redoing a non-PI head, you should instead buy new PI heads from Ford Racing Performance Parts.

PowerHeads can build you a new CNC-ported set for what you'd spend on a valve job.

This is the '04-'09 3-Valve SOHC head with a unique chamber that has two intake valves and a larger exhaust valve for vastly improved airflow and more power. Believe or not, you can turn your 2V SOHC into a 3V SOHC with the right parts.