Classic 1979 Ford F-250 Gets a Modern 7.3-Liter Power Stroke Swap

An old van gives up its diesel heart for a very cool 1979 Ford F-250 project that’s been in its owner’s family forever.

Few trucks get Blue Oval fans revved up more than ’70s pickups. And this 1979 Ford F-250 owned by Ford Truck Enthusiasts member Jdeshler is a pretty cool pickup in its own right, not to mention a rare Super Crew model. But an interesting opportunity presented itself recently, and that led the OP to consider swapping a modern-day 7.3-liter Power Stroke into his classic Ford F-250, and he’s documenting the whole process in this thread.

“I acquired a Power Stroke van about 8 years ago, and I’d say it’s time to start fitting it in dad’s old Ford F-250. This will be a slow progress build because my health is diminished from an auto accident back in December. Still kicking though. I used to take my wife on dates in this truck before we were married. The first two pictures of the F-250 are about 9-years-old.”

The OP shares a slew of cool pictures of him removing the 7.3 from the old van, which are quite entertaining. But it’s clear this is a pretty involved process, at least one that involves a ton of wires. The diesel has 260k miles on it, so a lot of cleaning is needed as well. After spending some time doing that, the OP began trying to figure out the electronic side of things.

After yanking the diesel, the OP cleans it up a bit. Then, he moves on to plucking the 351 from the Ford F-250. He then pulled the “new” engine inside his shop and prepared to start the painful wiring process. He also revealed that he plans on keeping the original instrument cluster, radio, and other components in the old truck, which we think is always a good idea, even if it takes a bit more work.

And that’s where this project sits as of now. With the engine out and lots of wires present, the next part is going to test the OP’s patience. But we imagine that the finished product will easily wash away any regret he might feel once this process starts. We’re looking forward to seeing this old Ford F-250 get an infusion of diesel power. And we imagine you are too. So be sure and head over here to follow along as this interesting swap comes together!

Photos: Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

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Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.