fits model: 351c, St-3, M-2, 750. make: Ford.

( Brand: Speedmaster ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: PCE276.1062 ), ( Part Type: Crankshaft ), ( Return Notes: New, Unused Condition W/original Packaging ), ( UPC: 840136529057 )
The **Speedmaster PCE276.1062 Ford 351 Cleveland (4340 Forged Steel Crankshaft, ST 3.750" / MT 2.749")** is a meticulously engineered, high-performance replacement crankshaft designed to elevate the power, durability, and reliability of Ford s legendary 351 Cleveland engine architecture. Crafted from **4340 alloy steel**, this crankshaft is forged to exacting standards, ensuring superior strength, fatigue resistance, and dimensional stability under extreme loads making it an ideal choice for high-RPM applications, forced induction builds, or restoration projects where precision and longevity are paramount. The **3.750-inch stroke** delivers a substantial displacement boost, enhancing torque output and low-end pulling power, while the **2.749-inch main journal diameter** provides a robust foundation for supporting the crank s load-bearing capacity, reducing stress on the engine s bearings and block. This crankshaft is engineered to match or exceed OEM specifications, featuring **ground and polished journals** for optimal bearing fit and reduced friction, as well as **precision-machined counterweights** to minimize vibration and enhance smoothness, even at aggressive RPM ranges. Whether installed in a classic muscle car, a high-performance street rod, or a competition engine, the Speedmaster PCE276.1062 offers a seamless blend of heritage engineering and modern performance, ensuring that every revolution of the crankshaft translates into raw, responsive power. Built to withstand the demands of both daily driving and spirited operation, this crankshaft is a testament to Speedmaster s commitment to quality, making it a standout upgrade for enthusiasts seeking to unlock the full potential of their 351 Cleveland engine.
### **Pros and Cons of Buying a Ford 351 Cleveland (4340 Forged Crankshaft) with ST 3.750" and MT 2.749"**
#### **Pros**
1. **High-Performance Base Engine**
- The **Ford 351 Cleveland** is a legendary muscle car engine known for its balance of power, reliability, and tunability. It was originally designed for high-performance applications, making it a strong choice for street or track use.
2. **4340 Forged Crankshaft**
- A **4340 forged steel crankshaft** is significantly stronger and more durable than cast cranks. It can handle higher RPMs, more torque, and prolonged stress without risking failure, which is crucial for forced induction or aggressive driving.
- The **ST (Stroke) of 3.750"** provides a substantial displacement (351 cubic inches), offering strong low-end torque and mid-range power, which is ideal for towing or heavy-duty applications.
- The **MT (Rod Length) of 2.749"** is slightly shorter than stock (2.875"), which reduces piston speed at high RPMs, improving longevity under heavy loads (e.g., turbocharging or supercharging).
3. **Proven Reliability with Proper Maintenance**
- When built correctly with quality components (e.g., forged pistons, high-performance rods, strong bearings, and proper lubrication), a 351 Cleveland with a forged crank can last **200,000 miles** with regular maintenance.
- The **4340 crank** is a favorite in racing and high-performance circles due to its track record in endurance applications.
4. **Tunability and Modification Potential**
- The 351 Cleveland responds well to **carburetion, fuel injection, turbocharging, and supercharging**. Its strong block design allows for **big-bore kits, high-flow heads, and aggressive camshafts** without major structural concerns.
- Aftermarket support is extensive, with options for **performance intake manifolds, exhaust headers, and electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems**.
5. **Classic Muscle Car Appeal**
- Owning a **351 Cleveland-powered vehicle** (e.g., Mustang, Boss 302, or Shelby GT350) carries nostalgic and collector value, especially in well-preserved or restored condition.
- The engine s **V8 sound and presence** make it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate classic American muscle.
6. **Better Than Stock for Most Applications**
- Compared to a **stock 351W (windage tray) or 351M (Merit)**, the **4340 forged crank version** is already an upgrade in strength and reliability. It s a **compromise between cost and performance**, making it a practical choice for those who want more power without a full race engine build.
7. **Lower Cost Than Racing-Grade Engines**
- While not as extreme as a **LS-based supercharged engine or a Chevy small-block with a billet crank**, the 351 Cleveland with a 4340 crank is **far more affordable** than a full race engine build (e.g., a **4340 crank forged internals big bore turbo**).
- It strikes a balance between **driving enjoyment and practicality** for street/strip use.
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#### **Cons**
1. **Higher Maintenance Requirements Than Stock**
- A **4340 crank engine** is not a "set it and forget it" powerplant. It requires **regular oil changes (every 3,000 5,000 miles), proper cooling, and attention to valve train components** (pushrods, lifters, rockers) to prevent premature wear.
- **Rod bolts and main cap bolts** must be torqued to specification and checked periodically. Loose or improperly torqued bolts can lead to catastrophic failure.
2. **Potential for Overbuilding Without Proper Support**
- While the **3.750" stroke and 2.749" rod length** are good for durability, **adding too much power (e.g., 1,000 HP with turbo/supercharger) without reinforcing the block, heads, and drivetrain** can lead to issues.
- The **original 351 Cleveland block is not as robust as a modern cast block** (e.g., LS or Gen 6 Ford). It may require **reinforced main caps, a stronger oil pump, and upgraded rod bearings** for high-power applications.
3. **Limited Modern Parts Availability**
- While **Ford parts for the 351 Cleveland are still available**, some **high-performance components (e.g., forged rods, special camshafts, or rare internals) may require sourcing from specialty suppliers**, increasing cost and lead times.
- **OEM replacement parts** (e.g., water pumps, timing chains, and some gaskets) can be **expensive or hard to find** compared to more modern engines.
4. **Potential for Weak Points in Stock Components**
- Even with a **4340 crank**, some **stock 351 Cleveland parts (e.g., pistons, rods, and bearings) are not as strong as aftermarket forged alternatives**. A **stock rod set** may not handle the same stress as **H-beam or forged rods**.
- **Stock heads** can be **weak in valve springs and retainers**, requiring upgrades if running **high-lift cams or forced induction**.
5. **Not as Efficient as Modern Engines**
- The **351 Cleveland is a thirsty engine**, especially with carburetors or early fuel injection. It **consumes more fuel and oil** than modern fuel-injected V8s (e.g., LS, Gen 6 Ford, or GM LT).
- **Emissions compliance** can be an issue in some regions, requiring **PCV systems, EGR modifications, or catalytic converters**, which may limit performance.
6. **Potential for Timing Chain Issues**
- The **351 Cleveland uses a timing chain**, which can **stretch or break** over time, leading to **valve train damage**. Regular **chain inspection and replacement** (every **60,000 100,000 miles**) is recommended.
- **Stock timing chains are not as durable as modern ones**, and aftermarket chains can be expensive.
7. **Resale Value Depends on Condition**
- While **well-maintained 351 Cleveland engines hold value**, a **neglected or poorly built one can be difficult to sell**. Buyers often **prefer engines with full service records** and **proven reliability**.
- **Restomod projects** (e.g., a **351 Cleveland in a modern frame**) may have **limited appeal** compared to **fully restored classic cars**.
8. **Not Ideal for Extreme High-RPM Applications**
- While the **2.749" rod length helps**, the **351 Cleveland is not a high-RPM engine** like a **Chevy small-block or LS**. It **peaks around 6,000 6,500 RPM**, making it less suitable for **drag racing or extreme turbocharging** without modifications.
- **Stock crankshaft balance** may require **dynamic balancing** if running **high RPMs**, adding cost.
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### **Ending Conclusion**
The **Ford 351 Cleveland with a 4340 forged crankshaft (ST 3.750", MT 2.749")** is a **strong, reliable, and tunable engine** that offers a **good balance between power, durability, and cost**. It is **not a "set-and-forget" powerplant**, but with **proper maintenance and upgrades**, it can provide **decades of dependable performance** in a **muscle car, street rod, or high-performance application**.
This engine is **ideal for**:- **Street/strip enthusiasts** who want **strong low-end torque and mid-range power**.
- **Restoration projects** where **classic muscle car appeal** is important.
- **Builders who want a proven, high-performance base** without the complexity of a **full race engine**.
- **Those who enjoy working on their engine** and don t mind **regular maintenance**.
However, it is **not ideal for**:- **Everyday drivers** who want **low maintenance and high fuel efficiency**.
- **Extreme high-RPM applications** (e.g., **1,000 HP turbo builds** without major reinforcement).
- **Those who prefer modern, emissions-compliant engines** with **easy parts availability**.
- **Budget-conscious buyers** who want a **plug-and-play performance engine** (e.g., **LS-based supercharged kits**).
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy this engine if:**You **want a classic, high-performance V8** with **strong low-end torque** and **good tunability**.
You are **prepared for regular maintenance** (oil changes, timing chain checks, rod bolt torque, etc.).
You plan to **build it properly** with **forged pistons, strong rods, and upgraded bearings** for longevity.
You **enjoy working on engines** and don t mind **some wear-and-tear** in exchange for **strong power delivery**.
Brand: Speedmaster. These crankshafts also have a large radius on all journals for improved strength and wear resistance. MSRP: $1173.50. Manufacturer: Speedmaster.
Ford 351C 4340 Forged Steel Crankshaft ST-3.750 M-2.749 MRL-6.2 Baal-Ext PCE forged standard weight crankshafts are designed for street or race engines with substantially increased horsepower. Domestic Shipping: The shipping cost on this listing or the Free Shipping is for lower 48 States. Precision-ground, heat-treated, shot-preened, inspected, and micro-polished for superior tolerance control Nitrite-hardened wear resistance Features large radius on all journals improved strength. PCE crankshafts are precision-ground, heat-treated, shot-preened, inspected, and micro-polished for superior tolerance control.
PCE crankshafts are also nitrite-hardened for superior wear resistance, have straight-shot and chambered oil holes, feature lightening holes in all rod throws. Items must be New, Unused, Not Installed, in the Original Packaging and able to resold. MPN: PCE276.1062. Condition: New.