I have an 87 F-150 that my dad bought new. He passed away in 2011 and the wife and I are considering giving it a facelift. It has the 302 in it and I'm not sure how many miles it has on it. I'm sure it's rolled over at least once. I'm thinking fix a few mechanical issues, lift, wheels and tires, and paint and then go from there. I don't know much about the truck. Is there anything I should know going into this rebuild? Anything that definitely needs upgrading to handle some larger tires? Is the 302 too small to make it a decent farm/trail truck? Are there any engines out there that I should keep an eye out for that would be a good swap? I know this year model truck isn't really collectible but it has some sentimental value. I would love any input and suggestions. Thanks.

 

Hi,
The 302, like the I-6, 4.9L FORD engine is bullet proof.

Having grown up on a Tobacco Farm in S.Georgia, I doubt you could get a better engine for your purpose, besides the 4.9L I-6 (mucho torque!!!)

I would do ALL the mechanical stuff first and the painting dead last! JMO!

 

Depending on your tire size upgrade, you'll at least want to add 2-4" of suspension lift. Also, check out your power steering pump for any leaks or noises.

 

My answers are all in red. In my opinion these trucks are work restoring no matter what especially when they are sentimental.
Trav

 

Thanks so much for the help guys.
Trav, my tentative plan is to put a 6" suspension lift and maybe 35's. What's the best way to tell what gears I need for this setup? If you had the choice would you upgrade the 302 or do a 351 swap? Thanks again.

 

Not sure where a decent chart would be that says what gears would be best but lots of research will tell you. I would say 4.56 if you go 351 4.88s if you stay 302. The 302 is a high reving motor and that is why. My bronco is going to have 35s with the 351 and I am probably going 4.56s.


If/when I have to put another engine in my 88 it will be a 351 roller mostly because I love the power of the 351 and my 83 Bronco has the 351. My family has a 95 351 F250 that once I finish installing the radiator I know will be awesome.
Trav

 

If I stay with the 302 and put 4.88 gears in will the stock axle setup handle that or will I need to look for something out of a 3/4 or 1 ton?

 

If you don't push it extremely hard like heavy rock climbing and such the stock axles will be fine. I have pushed my 88s front end pretty hard at times and it still is in great shape.
Trav