Description
BluePrint Engines Ford 408 C.I.D. 450 HP Stroker Base Engine BPF4089CTC
Product Overview
Unleash the full potential of your Ford build with the BluePrint Engines Ford 408 C.I.D. Stroker crate engine. This 450 horsepower, 450 lb-ft torque powerplant is engineered to deliver exceptional street performance with a broad, usable powerband, making it the ideal foundation for Mustangs, classic trucks, and hot rods. Based on the legendary Ford 351W platform, this stroker combines increased displacement with premium components for outstanding reliability and performance.
The BPF4089CTC is built as a “base engine,” providing you with a complete, dyno-tested short block and assembled cylinder heads, giving you the flexibility to choose your own intake, carburetion, and ignition systems to perfectly match your vehicle and goals. Featuring Dart Pro 1 aluminum cylinder heads and a hydraulic roller camshaft, this engine is ready to make serious power right out of the crate. The 408’s stroker configuration delivers massive low-end torque while maintaining strong mid-range and top-end power, creating a versatile engine that performs exceptionally well in a wide range of applications.
Whether you’re building a pro-touring Mustang, a powerful restomod truck, or a street-driven hot rod, this BluePrint 408 provides the perfect balance of modern performance and classic Ford durability.
Engine Resources & Guides
Technical Specifications
| Specification Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Part Number | BPF4089CTC |
| Engine Type | Ford Windsor Stroker |
| Displacement | 408 cu. in. |
| Max Horsepower | 450 HP |
| Max Torque | 450 lb-ft |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 |
| Block Material | Cast Iron |
| Crankshaft | 4340 Forged Steel |
| Connecting Rods | 4340 Forged I-Beam |
| Pistons | Forged Aluminum |
| Cylinder Heads | Dart Pro 1 Aluminum (62cc) |
| Camshaft Type | Hydraulic Roller |
| Assembly Level | Base Engine (Short Block + Heads) |
| Recommended Fuel | 92 Octane Premium |
What’s Included (Base Engine)
| Included | Not Included / Required Separately |
|---|---|
| ✓ Fully Assembled Short Block | ✗ Intake Manifold |
| ✓ Dart Pro 1 Aluminum Heads | ✗ Carburetor/Fuel Injection |
| ✓ Hydraulic Roller Camshaft | ✗ Valve Covers |
| ✓ Hardened Pushrods | ✗ Oil Pan |
| ✓ Valve Springs & Retainers | ✗ Harmonic Balancer |
| ✓ Timing Cover | ✗ Water Pump |
| ✗ Fuel System | |
| ✗ Ignition System | |
| ✗ Engine Accessories |
🛠️ Recommended for a Complete Installation
-
Carburetor: Holley 750 CFM Double-Pumper
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Ignition: MSD Ready-to-Run Distributor
Comparison Table: 408 Stroker vs. Stock Ford Engines
| Feature | BluePrint 408 Stroker | Stock 351W | Stock 302 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 450 HP | 200-250 HP | 200-225 HP |
| Torque | 450 lb-ft | 300-330 lb-ft | 275-300 lb-ft |
| Heads | Dart Aluminum | Cast Iron | Cast Iron |
| Bottom End | Forged Rotating Assembly | Cast | Cast |
| Power Band | Broad & Flat | Narrow Peak | High-RPM Focused |
| Ideal For | Performance Street/Strip | OEM Replacement | Light Performance |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the advantage of a 408 stroker over a 351W?
A: The 408 stroker provides:
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57 additional cubic inches for significantly more torque
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Broader powerband with strong low-end and mid-range power
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Forged rotating assembly for increased durability
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Modern aluminum cylinder heads for better flow and efficiency
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Perfect balance of street manners and performance
Q2: What vehicles will this engine fit?
A: The 408 Windsor platform fits all standard Small Block Ford applications:
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Ford Mustang (1965-1995)
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Ford Fairlane, Torino, Maverick
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Ford F-Series trucks
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Classic Broncos
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Various hot rods and customs
Q3: Why choose a “base engine” configuration?
A: A base engine provides:
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Customization flexibility for your specific needs
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Cost savings by using existing or preferred components
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Build optimization for your vehicle’s weight and gearing
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Upgrade path for future performance improvements
Q4: What intake manifold should I use with this engine?
A: Recommended intakes include:
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Single-plane: For high-RPM power (6500+ RPM)
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Dual-plane: For broad torque curve (street applications)
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Air-Gap design: Keeps intake charge cool for denser air
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EFI conversion: Modern fuel injection systems
Q5: What is the recommended break-in procedure?
A: Follow BluePrint’s specific break-in procedure:
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Use break-in oil and zinc additive
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Start immediately and vary RPM (2000-2500) for 20-30 minutes
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Change oil and filter after initial break-in
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Avoid extended idling and constant RPM during first 500 miles
Internal Link: Learn more in our Small Block Ford Performance Guide.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Massive Torque: 450 lb-ft perfect for street performance | Base Engine Only: Requires additional components |
| Premium Components: Dart heads & forged rotating assembly | Premium Fuel Required: 92 octane for optimal performance |
| Proven Power: Dyno-tested 450 HP out of the crate | Professional Installation Recommended: Complex setup |
| Windsor Compatibility: Fits standard SBF engine bays | Not Emissions Legal: For off-road/competition use only |
| Broad Powerband: Excellent street manners with strong performance | Higher Cost: Premium components command higher price |
Conclusion & Ideal Use Case
The BluePrint Engines Ford 408 Stroker is the ultimate choice for enthusiasts building a high-performance Ford that demands both massive torque and reliable street performance.
This engine is perfectly suited for:
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1967-1993 Ford Mustang Performance Builds
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Classic Ford Truck & Bronco Restomods
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Pro-Touring and Street Machine Projects
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High-Performance Hot Rods
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Non-emissions vehicles where maximum torque is desired
If you’re building a serious street machine that needs modern power with classic Ford character, the BluePrint 408 Stroker delivers proven performance with the quality and reliability that has made BluePrint Engines the choice of knowledgeable enthusiasts.
🔗 Official Technical Resource
For complete specifications, break-in procedures, and warranty information, visit the BluePrint Engines Support Page for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
