Installed a 70 Torino 302 in 65 F100 in the mid 70's. Had the engine rebuilt in the later 90's. After 20 K cylinder wall cracked on the rebuild due to driver error. Rather than sleeve the 1 cylinder I purchased a created 68 302 approx. 6 yrs ago. Couple days ago the truck started running poorly, missing at low rpm and stalling at a stop. Went thru the basic tune-up procedure; turned engine over to the top of compression stroke and found the timing marks were approx. 30 degrees, or more, off. After rotating distributor gear to align with timing marks still could not get the engine to idle. At this point noticed a major vacuum leak. Compression tested and found #2 cylinder running about 1/2 what the other 7 at 150 vs 90. Suspect valve problem since there was no improvement when I squirted oil into the cylinder.

Not an authority but it would seem to me, regardless of how serious a vacuum leak, at the top of the compression stoke the timing marks should be on or about TDC.

Which brings me to my question, once the problem has been diagnosed I would like to remove the head(s) from the 68 and make the repairs. In the meantime, could I use the heads from the Torino on the 68 289/302. Also, I would like to save some serious buck and break the Torino engine down and take the block in and have the sleeve installed. I am not familiar with rebuilding engines. I was browsing thru a 'how to rebuild Pontiac engines' and very impressed with the amount of detail and numerous pic's. It's a "SA design" with a workbench format. I came across a similar 'how to' on Ford small block engines with the same SA design and workbench format but from what I could observe online it did not appear to have anywhere near the amount of detail and pic's as the other book. Thought I would check and see if any member(s) could recommend a book. Comments and suggestions appreciated!!

 

Yes you can use the Torino heads on the '68 but if these heads have different rocker types you have to pay attention to pushrod length.. may need custom rods.

Rebuild Small-Block Ford Engines HP89: Amazon.ca: Tom Monroe: Books

 

In reviewing the above noted book it appears it is simular to the "SA Design" book but different authors. I will check with local book store and see if any carry both books for comparison. Appreciate the informatlion!! Thank you!!

Amazon.com: How to Rebuild the Small Block Ford-Color Edition (SA Design) (9781932494891): George Reid: Books

 

I bought the HP books version on Amazon used for $8. Well worth it. It was written a while ago but that info hasn't changed a bit.

Red

 

Ordered the book, short version, don't have a clue, went thru and replaced components for a tune up, swapped carbs and now the engine does'nt run at a constant rpm but surges; anyhow, it appears I am going to need the book. Thanks all appreciate the recommendation.