The Chrysler 426 Wedge is a 7,000 cc, 90° V8 petrol engine produced between 1964 and 1966. It features a single overhead valve (OHV) per cylinder, cast — iron block construction, and a wedge — shaped combustion chamber design. This engine was designed as a high — performance, high — torque powerplant for Chrysler's full — size sedans and muscle cars, delivering up to 365 hp (272 kW) and 470 lb‑ft (637 Nm) of torque in its highest factory tune.
Fitted primarily to the B — body and C — b…
Production years 1964–1966 predate US Federal emissions regulations (Clean Air Act 1968).
The Chrysler 426 Wedge is a 7,000 cc 90° V8 petrol engine engineered for full-size sedans and muscle cars (1964-1966). It combines a simple, robust OHV valvetrain with a large displacement to deliver immense low-end torque and proven durability. Designed before federal emissions standards, it prioritizes raw power and mechanical simplicity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 7,000 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
Configuration | 90° V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 4.25 in × 3.75 in (108.0 mm × 95.3 mm) | |
Power output | 365 hp (272 kW) @ 4,800 rpm (High-Performance) | |
Torque | 470 lb-ft (637 Nm) @ 3,200 rpm (High-Performance) | |
Fuel system | 4-barrel carburetor (Carter AFB or Holley) | |
Emissions standard | Pre-regulation (None) | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 (High-Performance) | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Non-detergent, per 1964 spec) | |
Dry weight | 675 lbs (306 kg) |
The Chrysler 426 Wedge was used across Chrysler Corporation's B-body and C-body platforms with longitudinal mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-primarily related to accessory drive layouts and exhaust manifolds for different model trims. All adaptations are documented in OEM factory assembly manuals.
The 426 Wedge's primary long-term reliability consideration is its thirst for high-octane fuel and regular mechanical maintenance. Internal Chrysler service data from the era indicates that the majority of engine failures were linked to detonation from using low-octane fuel or neglecting valve adjustments. The cast-iron block is extremely robust. Regular oil changes and adherence to the valve adjustment schedule are critical for longevity.
Analysis derived from Chrysler factory service manuals (1964-1966) and engineering documentation. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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Yes, the 426 Wedge is renowned for its brute strength and durability. Its simple, overbuilt design can handle immense power and high mileage. Long-term reliability depends heavily on using high-octane fuel to prevent detonation and performing regular mechanical maintenance, especially valve adjustments. With proper care, these engines can run reliably for decades.
The most frequent issues are engine knock from using low-octane fuel, valve train noise and wear from neglected adjustments, oil leaks from aged gaskets, and overheating from cooling system neglect. These are well-documented in Chrysler factory service manuals.
The 426 Wedge engine was used in full-size Dodge (Polara, Coronet), Plymouth (Fury), and Chrysler (Newport, 300) models from 1964 to 1966. It was the top performance engine option for these platforms before being replaced by the 426 Hemi.
Absolutely. The 426 Wedge is a legendary platform for performance upgrades. Simple modifications like a higher-flowing carburetor, performance camshaft, headers, and dual exhaust can yield significant gains. More advanced builds with aftermarket cylinder heads, increased compression, and forced induction can produce well over 500 horsepower reliably.
Fuel economy is very poor by modern standards, as expected for a large, high-compression V8 from the 1960s. Expect around 8-10 mpg (US) in city driving and 12-14 mpg (US) on the highway. Fuel consumption is a trade-off for its immense power and torque.
No. The Chrysler 426 Wedge is a non-interference engine. This means that if the timing chain (which drives the camshaft) were to fail, the pistons would not contact the valves. This design prevents catastrophic internal engine damage from timing component failure, which is a significant advantage for such a large, powerful engine.
Originally, Chrysler specified non-detergent SAE 10W-40 oil. For any engine in use today, a high-quality modern detergent oil (e.g., API SP 10W-40 or 20W-50) is strongly recommended for superior engine protection, especially for flat tappet camshafts. Regular oil changes every 3,000-5,000 miles are crucial.
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