Description: 1985 F-250 2WD with a newer 300 I6 1994 motor supposedly (1990+ based on casting number F0TE-6015-DA), 4 speed T-18.<O</O

Problems: Need to pass emission test (tailpipe in TN), no smog/air pump, wiring connectors melted from laying on block, 1 barrel feedback carburetor with no electrical connections or vacuum lines connected or plugged, air lines into head crimped closed, electric fuel pump mounted to frame and wired to the windshield wiper harness (hot in run I think) but no pressure regulator.

Background: I have read numerous threads on this site and others in an effort to obtain some knowledge relating to the problems I need to address. I have been an Oldsmobile man all my life as indicated by my user name, and have restored several. I can turn a wrench but I am new to fords. Thank you for this site and all who participate in making it a great source of information.

Objective: Pass emission test and make the truck reliable on a budget.

Questions:

1. What year(s) distributor is recommended if I switch to a duraspark II ignition using either a TFI coil or stock duraspark coil?
2. What year(s) carburetor and or ID number(s) is recommended if I stay with the carter 1 barrel, mechanical and vacuum advance?
3. Can I remove the EGR valve without causing a problem since I have a spacer from the junkyard already?
4. What is recommended for capping off the airlines into the head?
5. Is there a stock fuel pressure regulator that I can purchase and attach to provide the proper flow?
6. Is it recommended to run a catalytic converter to reduce emissions or will it do all right if components are tuned/adjusted properly? If yes, than is a generic cat OK?
7. I would like to remove all emission wiring and components, but have heard of several people that say to leave in place and plug/disconnect, any thoughts/recommendations?
8. Should I try to locate all emission components and go for stock?
9. I have the motor removed and am going to replace the following, any other recommended items for replacement, or type/manufacturer of gaskets?

Please refer to the question numbers in your reply or be specific. Thank you for your assistance.

 

I run Felpro gaskets.

 

One general question that will decide which direction you will be going; Do you have to pass a visual under hood inspection(and underneath too?). Usually a strict place will lift the hood, so all these plans about capping and plugging and eliminating the cat will not fly. We do not have sniffer tests here where I live, but they do look underneath for a cat, or something that resembles a cat, and sometimes they will left the hood, usually looking for the dreaded smog pump and all it's plumbing.

 

Emission test in TN is visual for the gas cap and cat (they let it slide 1st time thru, my cat is gone). Actual test is out the pipe only, unless you want to obtain a waiver, then they look under the hood for all emission equipment.