2016 Taurus SHO
- Thread starter Rayme20
- Start date
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RamAireTransAm
SHO Member
- Joined
- Apr 21, 2016
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- 40
you do plugs yet
CYFS12YT3 - yes, they are iridium. Spark Plug Gap - might be 0.030 under the Motorcraft label. But what comes factory installed may have varied plug gap. Supposed to be 0.030–0.033 in. (0.75–0.85 mm). But especially if you are tuning the SHO, you should verify that plug gap is correct, as the sensitivity to plug gap also increases. Helps the car run smoother, and so there is some incremental performance gain.
Glad to see that we exceeded your expectations! I would do new plugs, because the stock plugs are gapped by a blind man. The gaps regularly can be anywhere from .030-.046! I would add downpipes as they will help you make peak power about 500RPM sooner, hold that peak about 500RPM longer and then keep making power for another 500RPM. The gains that you will see from the dp addition alone is 10-15hp on top of the greater powerband efficiency.
After the DP's the only bolt on part that is left will be our catback exhaust. That kind of kills that sleeper luxury that you enjoy now. @SHOnUup4 can share a sweet video that he took of his recent install of the DP and CB combo. His car sounds very good!
No we do NOT recommend using any type of WMI kits. Think about it for a second...a TDI engine's intake manifold is where (like NOS in other applications) you are introducing WATER. Ever heard the saying water and oil don't mix? That could not be anymore true for your EcoBoost! Is water a good cooling agent, yes. However, there are other ways to achieve superior cooling without the introduction of water, like having our deck brace system!
The factory 3.5L Ford Ecoboost block is built with an open deck configuration. This open deck configuration has a series of advantages in the stock application, such as ease of manufacturing, cooling, and lower weight.
However, when pushed beyond the stock power level, this open deck configuration becomes a problem. With the cylinder bores floating freely, there is no structural support to keep their position relative. Additionally bore geometry is affected at higher power levels as the bores distort and shift because they lack support. The head gasket faces increased loading and shift as the bores move under heavy load, leading to possible gasket failure under load.
All of these problems are big issues for a higher output 3.5L Ecoboost engine, as more boost, larger turbos, and upgraded parts allow for nearly doubling the output of the stock engine. Without some method of stabilizing the cylinder bores the engine will have reduced performance, and most likely eventually suffer a failure.
Livernois Motorsports has taken and applied it's extensive background in block modification for racing and OEM development and created a block and deck brace system for the 3.5L Ecoboost engine, which offers significant increases in strength, durability and performance,
The Livernois Motorsports 3.5L Ecoboost deck brace system is designed from a pair of billet pieces of 6061-T6 aluminum and is machined to perfectly fit into the 3.5L Ecoboost block. Exacting tolerances are used to ensure a precision fit, as well as the best performance. Using high strength aluminum allows the brace to closely match the factory aluminum's expansion rate, which allows the brace to expand and contract at the same rate as the block, keeping the bore geometry as it should be. Additionally, the brace is machined with cooling passages that match the factory 3.5L Ecoboost head gaskets, as well as other machining steps to ensure that the head gasket is properly cooled.
When final machined, the deck braces look as if it were part of the OEM 3.5L block, perfectly matching the parent aluminum of the block, and offering a seamless and perfect solution to adding significant strength, durability, and performance to a 3.5L Ecoboost engine.
We do not have a bundle with our DP, CB and methanol injection. There is actually good reason for that! We do not recommend the average modder to attempt to install a meth system. It is extremely intricate. There are several major things that need to be done in order to install a meth kit correctly. For example, removing major sections of the body, drilling into the frame and tapping into wiring. It is VERY involved, as you can see. On a 1-10 difficulty scale it is about a 12. We routinely have shops that incorrectly install meth kits on EcoBoost cars and trucks. Installation is only part of the battle! You still have to be able to calibrate the system correctly. There are several gain adjustment knobs that need to be altered in order for your kit to work correctly.
bpd1151
Lurking Around
I like adjusting knobs....
Tee hee hee
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Tee hee hee
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shoblock
SHO Member
How do you match the as-cast surfaces of the water jacket in the eco-boost block? They are die-cast, using different dies in various states of wear. Do you 'bench them' in? My impression is that you fit an insert to a certain depth below the head deck surface to stabilize. True? Also, while not optimal, the bores are siamesed down the centerline, and the weakest part would be the outer bores on the outer perimeter.
Of course in the old sand cast days, we just left a solid head deck with openings that matched the head gasket. Miss those days.
Thanks ahead of time for the info, it sounds like something I would like to eventually invest in.
Good question!
So if you actually look at our Machine Shop Services you will see that we have a tool that you have likely never even seen before, a ROMER Infinite 2.0. The ROAMER can be affixed with several differently styled tools for different types of measuring, probing and/or digitizing. What this tool allows us to do is actually use its arm to take data points, log those points, reproduce them into a matrix and then recreate that part into a completely manipulatable 3D image.
So once we have all of those points transformed into a viewable/manipulatable image we can then sit down and review that recreated matrix. This allows us to take measurements on all 5-axis'. Using all of those measurements we can use our MasterCam X7 with Port Expert, Solidworks 2012, Camplete port and Verisurf X softwares to engineer a deck brace.
So if you actually look at our Machine Shop Services you will see that we have a tool that you have likely never even seen before, a ROMER Infinite 2.0. The ROAMER can be affixed with several differently styled tools for different types of measuring, probing and/or digitizing. What this tool allows us to do is actually use its arm to take data points, log those points, reproduce them into a matrix and then recreate that part into a completely manipulatable 3D image.
So once we have all of those points transformed into a viewable/manipulatable image we can then sit down and review that recreated matrix. This allows us to take measurements on all 5-axis'. Using all of those measurements we can use our MasterCam X7 with Port Expert, Solidworks 2012, Camplete port and Verisurf X softwares to engineer a deck brace.
Do you need to run the 160 TStat with a block built up this way? One of the advantages of open deck design is better cooling, though this is somewhat addressed by boring out of new coolant passages in the brace. At what point would you risk detonation with the upgraded block compared to the OEM block?
We recommend running our 160° tstat regardless. Cooling system flow is altered slightly from the addition of the brace, but in most respects it just acts as a much thicker head gasket, as the coolant passages in the plate are modeled after the factory gasket. The passages in the plate are then adjusted to compensate for flow, and additional paths added back in to maintain proper cooling of the head gasket, as well as proper coolant flow between the head and block.
shoblock
SHO Member
Good question!
So if you actually look at our Machine Shop Services you will see that we have a tool that you have likely never even seen before, a ROMER Infinite 2.0. The ROAMER can be affixed with several differently styled tools for different types of measuring, probing and/or digitizing. What this tool allows us to do is actually use its arm to take data points, log those points, reproduce them into a matrix and then recreate that part into a completely manipulatable 3D image.
So once we have all of those points transformed into a viewable/manipulatable image we can then sit down and review that recreated matrix. This allows us to take measurements on all 5-axis'. Using all of those measurements we can use our MasterCam X7 with Port Expert, Solidworks 2012, Camplete port and Verisurf X softwares to engineer a deck brace.
Actually, I watched my first Roamer demonstration before the guy in this photo was born, and agree they are an impressive CMM. (Computerized measuring machine) There are many, and this one is low priced, convenient, and efficient.
Now, the deck plate- Is it the outer surface machined to fit perfectly into the water jacket? Does it allow for the draft angle built into the water jacket by creating a solid cad model, which is then used by a CNC (computerized Numerical control) to machine a custom deck plate for each block? I think it would be easier and more productive to first machine the block to a given depth from the head face, using a cutterpath written to accomodate a perfect fit for a pre-manufactured deck plate. Make all the plates the same size (one for the left bank and one for the right bank) Then, just drop the deck plate in.
My real question is: how do you hold the new deck plate down in it's opening? Of course, the head would hold it down, but for it to fit tightly around the bores, it would have to fit with a micron-measured tolerance.
Not trying to be a Poindexter, just trying to understand how this baby will keep my bores from 'dancing around' in the water jacket.
Your shop is impressive, and I already own several of your products. Keep up the good work.
Seeing how the ROMER did not sell their measuring tools in the US until 1989, I would have to say that the 30 year old pictured is a tad bit older. Furthermore, the INFINITE 2.0 was not released until 2008. Just being a stickler for chronology. Especially since the guy you mention in the picture happens to be me. 
The complete INFINITE 2.0 system (without probing tools) is also quite expensive. As they typically have a starting price of ~$30,000.
The entire piece is machined to match the spacing of your particular deck to perfection. We have actually tried to install the deck brace similarly to how you described. The problem is that you cannot make the braces to the same stringent tolerances that we do currently if we were to make them your way. This would eliminate much of the structural integrity of the brace. Post machining the brace we actually have developed a proprietary process for pressing the brace into place. This process is very similar to the one that we use when installing our proprietary sleeves.
The brace adds significant strength to the block, deck and bores. This ensures that even under high boost conditions where power and load go up considerably, that the bores don't shift and move due to the factory open deck design. In addition, to strengthening the bores and improving ring seal under load the brace also improves the head gasket retention and sealing, preventing gasket blowout. This brace kit offers a much needed improvement in bore and deck strength for the EcoBoost 3.5L engine. The factory open deck block architecture works well at OEM power levels, but can quickly become strained in higher boost and power applications. This bore brace adds significant rigidity to the bore and deck. This allows for much higher output without fear of failure from bore deformation or gasket blowout. The increased strength of the deck surface prevents gasket creep and eventual blowout. The design of the brace with its integral cooling passages built in allows to maintain the proper gasket temperature as well, and also allows for coolant passage between the cylinders. Livernois offers this system with included machine work necessary to upgrade your 3.5L EcoBoost engine to the ultimate in durability and performance.
The complete INFINITE 2.0 system (without probing tools) is also quite expensive. As they typically have a starting price of ~$30,000. The entire piece is machined to match the spacing of your particular deck to perfection. We have actually tried to install the deck brace similarly to how you described. The problem is that you cannot make the braces to the same stringent tolerances that we do currently if we were to make them your way. This would eliminate much of the structural integrity of the brace. Post machining the brace we actually have developed a proprietary process for pressing the brace into place. This process is very similar to the one that we use when installing our proprietary sleeves.
The brace adds significant strength to the block, deck and bores. This ensures that even under high boost conditions where power and load go up considerably, that the bores don't shift and move due to the factory open deck design. In addition, to strengthening the bores and improving ring seal under load the brace also improves the head gasket retention and sealing, preventing gasket blowout. This brace kit offers a much needed improvement in bore and deck strength for the EcoBoost 3.5L engine. The factory open deck block architecture works well at OEM power levels, but can quickly become strained in higher boost and power applications. This bore brace adds significant rigidity to the bore and deck. This allows for much higher output without fear of failure from bore deformation or gasket blowout. The increased strength of the deck surface prevents gasket creep and eventual blowout. The design of the brace with its integral cooling passages built in allows to maintain the proper gasket temperature as well, and also allows for coolant passage between the cylinders. Livernois offers this system with included machine work necessary to upgrade your 3.5L EcoBoost engine to the ultimate in durability and performance.
bpd1151
Lurking Around
I love you LMS. No ****.
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shoblock
SHO Member
This is fun. Good answer! The cutaway photo is worth a thousand words. PRESS is the word I love the most. One day, we will meet.Seeing how the ROMER did not sell their measuring tools in the US until 1989, I would have to say that the 30 year old pictured is a tad bit older. Furthermore, the INFINITE 2.0 was not released until 2008. Just being a stickler for chronology. Especially since the guy you mention in the picture happens to be me.
The entire piece is machined to match the spacing of your particular deck to perfection. We have actually tried to install the deck brace similarly to how you described. The problem is that you cannot make the braces to the same stringent tolerances that we do currently if we were to make them your way. This would eliminate much of the structural integrity of the brace. Post machining the brace we actually have developed a proprietary process for pressing the brace into place. This process is very similar to the one that we use when installing our proprietary sleeves.
The brace adds significant strength to the block, deck and bores. This ensures that even under high boost conditions where power and load go up considerably, that the bores don't shift and move due to the factory open deck design. In addition, to strengthening the bores and improving ring seal under load the brace also improves the head gasket retention and sealing, preventing gasket blowout. This brace kit offers a much needed improvement in bore and deck strength for the EcoBoost 3.5L engine. The factory open deck block architecture works well at OEM power levels, but can quickly become strained in higher boost and power applications. This bore brace adds significant rigidity to the bore and deck. This allows for much higher output without fear of failure from bore deformation or gasket blowout. The increased strength of the deck surface prevents gasket creep and eventual blowout. The design of the brace with its integral cooling passages built in allows to maintain the proper gasket temperature as well, and also allows for coolant passage between the cylinders. Livernois offers this system with included machine work necessary to upgrade your 3.5L EcoBoost engine to the ultimate in durability and performance.
Okay, you looked 29.
Guess I should tell you a little more about myself. I started a career as a metal patternmaker in 1977, with a major automotive corporation. Promotions to machinist, (5 yrs with veneer based equipment. Rotomill, surface grinder, machine lathe, blanchard grinder, various duplicating mills, etc.) Layout, (we used wwII equipment. The Rotab was the most sophisticated, and you needed to have a working knowledge of compound angles. It was granite layout plate and surface gages) Tooling Designer ( I was 'Mr Ranger' of the 1995 1/4 four cyl. Ranger block and heads) Oh, remember the 3.0l Taurus block of 1986? Original drawings were in German because the design was purchased from Porsche. Fact. Notable people with my training include George Britnell (look him up on Google. We called him Dr. George. I was in layout pulling drawings when George built that small 302 on his lunchbreaks!) Promotion to tooling designer included training in process engineering as well as serving as a foundry troubleshooter for 5 different engine plants. If I could fix an engine build issue with a tooling revision, I wrote the work orders and made the sketches. Block design starts with the engineering print, then casting drawings and machine prints. Throw in material specs and change columns, and your good to go! Sorry, didn't mean to put anyone to sleep! Let's just say I see 2000 of these blocks machined and assembled every day, and am intimately familiar with all processes, though I only deep-dive as needed.
Now, back to the brace. When I first saw the block with the water passage open to the head deck, I immediately visualized the tops of the cylinder bores moving around. Yep, you're not the only one. What is amazing to me is that the block easily carries the horsepower as-is, with the rods and pistons being the fuse. I receive less than 2 blocks returns from the field each year. Again, great work by you guys from someone who really knows and understands.
Now, that old Roamer. It could've been before '89 because they were trying to get it to be useful in a personnel restricted area of the shop. I remember (and I have a good memory, but it's short!) a large black box, heavy, suitcase looking thing, attached by a flexible conduit, to a crude looking Roamer tool that you could wave and take hits. Movement at that time was very restricted by the conduit and suitcase travel. They called it a portable validator. We kept it for awhile to compare results to our granite bridge machines by Brown and Sharpe. ($1.000,000+) .006" was the closest the Roamer could come to the bridge machines at that time. Today, they are an affordable marvel that took many years to get to their present level. Let's see, 2016-1988=28. Okay you definitely don't look 28!
shoblock
SHO Member
Seeing how the ROMER did not sell their measuring tools in the US until 1989, I would have to say that the 30 year old pictured is a tad bit older. Furthermore, the INFINITE 2.0 was not released until 2008. Just being a stickler for chronology. Especially since the guy you mention in the picture happens to be me.
The entire piece is machined to match the spacing of your particular deck to perfection. We have actually tried to install the deck brace similarly to how you described. The problem is that you cannot make the braces to the same stringent tolerances that we do currently if we were to make them your way. This would eliminate much of the structural integrity of the brace. Post machining the brace we actually have developed a proprietary process for pressing the brace into place. This process is very similar to the one that we use when installing our proprietary sleeves.
The brace adds significant strength to the block, deck and bores. This ensures that even under high boost conditions where power and load go up considerably, that the bores don't shift and move due to the factory open deck design. In addition, to strengthening the bores and improving ring seal under load the brace also improves the head gasket retention and sealing, preventing gasket blowout. This brace kit offers a much needed improvement in bore and deck strength for the EcoBoost 3.5L engine. The factory open deck block architecture works well at OEM power levels, but can quickly become strained in higher boost and power applications. This bore brace adds significant rigidity to the bore and deck. This allows for much higher output without fear of failure from bore deformation or gasket blowout. The increased strength of the deck surface prevents gasket creep and eventual blowout. The design of the brace with its integral cooling passages built in allows to maintain the proper gasket temperature as well, and also allows for coolant passage between the cylinders. Livernois offers this system with included machine work necessary to upgrade your 3.5L EcoBoost engine to the ultimate in durability and performance.
Seeing how the ROMER did not sell their measuring tools in the US until 1989, I would have to say that the 30 year old pictured is a tad bit older. Furthermore, the INFINITE 2.0 was not released until 2008. Just being a stickler for chronology. Especially since the guy you mention in the picture happens to be me.
The entire piece is machined to match the spacing of your particular deck to perfection. We have actually tried to install the deck brace similarly to how you described. The problem is that you cannot make the braces to the same stringent tolerances that we do currently if we were to make them your way. This would eliminate much of the structural integrity of the brace. Post machining the brace we actually have developed a proprietary process for pressing the brace into place. This process is very similar to the one that we use when installing our proprietary sleeves.
The brace adds significant strength to the block, deck and bores. This ensures that even under high boost conditions where power and load go up considerably, that the bores don't shift and move due to the factory open deck design. In addition, to strengthening the bores and improving ring seal under load the brace also improves the head gasket retention and sealing, preventing gasket blowout. This brace kit offers a much needed improvement in bore and deck strength for the EcoBoost 3.5L engine. The factory open deck block architecture works well at OEM power levels, but can quickly become strained in higher boost and power applications. This bore brace adds significant rigidity to the bore and deck. This allows for much higher output without fear of failure from bore deformation or gasket blowout. The increased strength of the deck surface prevents gasket creep and eventual blowout. The design of the brace with its integral cooling passages built in allows to maintain the proper gasket temperature as well, and also allows for coolant passage between the cylinders. Livernois offers this system with included machine work necessary to upgrade your 3.5L EcoBoost engine to the ultimate in durability and performance.
I have something to share that may come in handy. On the left side of this cutaway block is a 2D matrix with a series of numbers beneath. I can't quite make out the whole string, but it starts with '15' 15 is the machine number the block was cast on. There are 15 total machines in the foundry. The next three digits are the julian date. Ex. 004 would be January 4th. The next three digits are the year, '15' is 2015. The next is letters A thru D. That is the shift/work crew responsible. The final three digits in that line are the sequence number for the block quantities made in that shift. '192' would be the hundred and ninety second block made in that shift on that day. The number below is part of a larger total for quantities of blocks produced with certain criteria.
Okay everyone, tell how old your block is!
