Will an exhaust leak at the rear port of a 460 ford engine burn valve or cause other harm to engine?

An exhaust leak at the rear port of a 460 Ford engine is unlikely to directly burn a valve. The exhaust valves are already *after* the exhaust ports. The leak itself won't cause the valves to overheat and burn in the way that, say, a restricted exhaust would.

However, a significant exhaust leak *can* cause other problems:

* Loss of power and performance: Escaping exhaust gases reduce the engine's ability to scavenge properly, reducing cylinder pressure and thus horsepower.

* Increased engine noise: The escaping exhaust will create a noticeable roar or popping sound.

* Exhaust fumes in the engine bay: This is a serious safety concern, as carbon monoxide is both toxic and odorless. It can lead to health problems or even death if inhaled in sufficient quantities.

* Damage to other components: The intense heat from the escaping exhaust gases can potentially damage nearby components, including wiring harnesses, fuel lines, or even the body of the vehicle.

* Improper Air/Fuel Mixture: In rare circumstances, a large leak might draw in air altering the air/fuel ratio, potentially leading to lean running and subsequent damage. This is less likely than the other problems.

In short, while a rear exhaust port leak on a 460 won't directly *burn* a valve, it's a serious problem that should be repaired immediately to prevent other damage and safety hazards.