Help on rebuilding the engine

xKirkx · #1 (**permalink**) 12-28-2003, 12:56 AM

well my 1990 bronco has almost 400,000 miles on its 302 and i think its time for it to get rebuilt, its starting to run bad and everything. so i was wondering if anyone could help me in choosing an engine kit that includes almost everything for the internal engine. i know edelbrock has its power package but it is way too expensive and doesnt have everything i need. so if you can write back with links or some info i'll appreciate it
thanks

RTM · #2 (**permalink**) 12-28-2003, 07:25 AM

There are really only two things to look for when rebuilding the motor and they are cam shaft selection and piston selection. Of course get a quality gasket kit like fel pro.

With the mileage you have new valve springs will be needed. More than likely new guides also. Now you can upgrade to stainless steel valves but if you got 400K out of the stock motor then why bother. I myself would install the stainless valves. Get a good double roller timing chain.

I haven't looked ino kits in a long time so I can't say which kit if any would be best but the above is what I would look for. The machine shop should be able to help you as well.

Since I am new here as well I think this post may get moved to the performance section for the small block ford motors.

steell · #3 (**permalink**) 12-28-2003, 11:23 AM

I think it would be cheaper to get a reman engine from Jasper. It would save you a lot of time and aggravation as well.

fordguy351w · #4 (**permalink**) 12-28-2003, 11:39 AM

http://www.larrysperformance.com/dat...ekits_main.htm try this place. it looks to me that it is a pretty good deal.

jeep8589 · #5 (**permalink**) 12-28-2003, 05:29 PM

You didn't specify whether you wanted a stock rebuild or a performance rebuild. This makes a huge difference in what you are looking for. I am assuming stock with this advice. The most important thing you need for a good rebuild is a good machine shop. With that many miles, you are going to need machine work. A good machine shop can even get you a complete engine kit with everything you need. They will also do your heads for you and recommend a cam. If you have a cam in mind, they will order it for you. Unless you have the equipment, which I assume you don't given the question, you will need someone to mount the pistons on the rods anyway. You can even pay them to assemble the engine, or just the short block depending on the skills you have or the time you have to work on it. But I do stress, ask around and find a good shop. Small tolerances make a huge difference on engines so quality is important. If you are looking for high performance, summit is a great place as is jegs. Jasper engines also have a good reputation. They are a little pricey to me but have a good warranty. I rebuilt mine with a mild cam (351w) had the machine shop grind the valve seats and seals on my heads and all the machine work for about $1100 with the engine kit. Hope this helps.

xKirkx · #6 (**permalink**) 12-28-2003, 09:14 PM

thanks for your all your advice