You may have heard the term “Flat-Plane Crank” and have questions about its engineering on the Ford GT350 V8 engine. The Flat-Plane Crankshaft engines not only sound different but also rev to incredible RPMs, and a lot more to learn about.
What Is A Flat-Plane Crank V8?
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Through research, development and technology today, the V8 engine can be turned into a monster machine that roars like a lion and purrs like a kitten! Advancements in Ford engineering have made this engine possible and available to consumers.
v8 engines have a distinct and recognizable sound to most car enthusiasts. The rumble burble sounds great! To the discerning ear, the flat-plane crank V8 is a perfect virtuoso performance. So other than the way the engine sounds, what makes it so sought after?
In order to achieve a balanced, light-weight and track-capable engine, Ford invested heavily into research and development. The flat-plane allows engineers to program the ignition in a perfect alternation piston firing: left-right-left-right. It’s lighter crankshaft can quickly spin making it race-ready for RPMs up to 8,200!
Even exhaust gases are maximized for efficiency and better performance in the flat-plane crank 5.2L V8 of the GT350 when compared to a standard cross-crank V8 like the Mustang GT 5.0L, all thanks to a less complex manifold.
The GT350 is a new kind of Mustang. Track-ready from the factory, its V-8 makes 526 hp and some of the best 8200-rpm noises you’ll ever hear. Watch as a drummer demonstrates the difference from a regular V8 to the flat-plane crank.
