Among Ford’s Modular engine lineup, the 6.8-liter V10 is often regarded as the least impressive option. It suffered from the same spark plug thread issues that affected the V8s, yet it was inherently more complicated and less fuel-efficient. Moreover, it lacked power and did not produce an appealing sound. However, some innovative YouTubers have decided to tap into its hidden potential, crafting a high-revving naturally aspirated version paired with an exhaust system inspired by Formula 1 V10 engines.
The YouTube channel Build It Yourself has been chronicling their engine build journey for two years, as they prepare to install it in a final-generation Lincoln Continental. According to the hosts, there’s virtually no aftermarket support for these engines, with even basic performance upgrades like intake systems being unavailable. The most anyone had previously accomplished with the 6.8 was by Ford itself, which reportedly created a prototype featuring twin-cam cylinder heads, unlike the production engines that utilized single-cam and two- or three-valve configurations. Embracing the essence of their channel’s name, they embarked on a mission to create everything themselves.
To truly appreciate the scope of their project, it’s essential to examine the intake system before moving on to the engine’s other components. Their setup features dual throttle bodies leading into a completely custom intake manifold, which connects to twin-cam cylinder heads modified from the supercharged Mustang SVT Cobra (“Terminator”). The hosts skillfully cut and rewelded some heads to extend their length to five cylinders, and commissioned custom camshafts to be created. These cams operate four valves on a robust bottom-end designed to withstand a dramatic compression ratio increase from 9.2:1 to an astonishing 13:1, surpassing the 11:1 ratio of many Ford 5.0-liter Coyote V8s. Their ambitious target? Achieving 8,000 rpm and generating 700 horsepower, all while producing an exhilarating exhaust note.
This will be achieved with five-into-one collectors featuring equal-length runners, reflecting the design principles used in classic Formula 1 V10s. To enhance the engine’s sound, an X-pipe will be added, which Holley states not only boosts power across the entire RPM range but also elevates the exhaust note. This is precisely the characteristic desired from a high-revving naturally aspirated V10.
The video above showcases the engine as it fires up and begins running, but it only explores half of its intended RPM range, hitting 4,000 rpm. It barely provides a glimpse of the engine’s full potential—near its limiter under full load on a dynamometer. While it may not replicate the sound of an F1 engine, it promises to be exceptional, and one can look forward to the moment when it can be experienced at its maximum performance.
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