1983 F-250 XLT Auto, 2wd, 460, pre catalytic, 104K mi, 2nd owner

Needs:

• $10K of body work
• A/C updated
• Air pump inop
• exhaust leak in over axle pipe
• exhaust manifold bolt sheared at block (#8 cyl)
• rear stabilizer bar needs bushing replaced #2 side
• power windows need refreshed
• emergency brake inop (cable)
• corrosion on frame (extent not verified)

Strengths:

• Interior is all original & immaculate (top option buckets)
• engine is low mileage and very clean and reliable
• maintenance records from day one show excellent service by 1st owner
• steering and alignment great
• tires and brakes <3000 mi
• electrical is trouble free
• 650 CFM Edelbrock carb <1000 mi

Short Term Plans:

• repair exhaust manifold bolt hole
• upgrade engine for mildly improved power and performance
  • intake replaced that matches the current carb but leaves opportunity for upgrade in future
  • reduce the early and simple emissions system to as close to zero as is practical
  • timing chain & cam replaced
• remount stock manifolds
• covert to dual exhaust
• convert A/C
• Shocks and stabilizer bushings
• Ignition tuneup and upgrades where practical
• detail engine compartment

Longer term plans

• 750 CFM carb
• headers
• covert rear brakes to disc
• windows
• bodywork

 

Tore down to the heads. Removed #1 head that has bolt repairs needed and sent it to shop for repair. Combustion chambers look great. No defects evident in valve train or push rods. Engine very clean under valve covers.

Thinking about ignition system changes, intake replacement and emission system reductions.

 

The reason I sent the head to the shop for repairs was that on my attempt to easy out the broken bolt, I broke an easy out and the remainder is in the drilled hole. The shop (NAPA) looked at it and the "machinist" said he didn't want to touch it with the easy out in there. Maybe he knows best, but......

I am glad in retrospect. I think I can take a teeny drill bit (technical talk ) and drill around the easy out. I am on the road for two weeks but will drill into this when I get back mid Oct.

Any other suggestions (other than springing for some 70's heads as my right brain has been screaming at me)?