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460 vs 390: Rebuild or Replace

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Old Jul 4, 2003 | 11:39 AM
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Vin Man's Avatar
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Red face 460 vs 390: Rebuild or Replace

I have a 76 F150 SuperCab with a very tired 460 and automatic tranny in it. I have a good running 390 ready to drop in (along with a C6 that bolts up to the 390). The question I want to pose: What would you do? Rebuild the 460 or drop in the 390?

The primary use for the truck will be hauling and towing a car trailer. I have a 73 F100 with a 390 and have always been happy with the performance. The only problem has been stopping when I have a loaded trailer.

However, when I purchased the 76, even with the tired 460, it pulls better than the 390.

So, what's your opinion?

-Vinny
 
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Old Jul 4, 2003 | 04:14 PM
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460 vs 390: Rebuild or Replace

Haven't you answered your own question? Rebuilding cost $$, and so does conversion.
 
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Old Jul 4, 2003 | 05:56 PM
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From: Gilbert, Arizona (Phoenix
460 vs 390: Rebuild or Replace

I really want the 460, but rebuilding will easily go over $1000. The 390 and tranny I have is ready to go (too bad the existing tranny won't bolt up to the 390). How much would you estimate conversion to cost?
 
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Old Jul 4, 2003 | 06:18 PM
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460 vs 390: Rebuild or Replace

It all depends upon what all of those brackets, and pieces etc cost you. Most people just buy a parts truck for all of the parts required in a conversion.
 
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Old Jul 6, 2003 | 09:21 AM
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460 vs 390: Rebuild or Replace

stick with the 390...you ve got a good engine and tranny too. It may not pull quite as hard as the 460, but it wont cost you 2000+ for a rebuild either.
 
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Old Jul 6, 2003 | 10:06 AM
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Greg 79 f150
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From: Kentucky
460 vs 390: Rebuild or Replace

Originally posted by e065206
I really want the 460, but rebuilding will easily go over $1000. The 390 and tranny I have is ready to go (too bad the existing tranny won't bolt up to the 390). How much would you estimate conversion to cost?
You must be figuring on doing the rebuild yourself and getting all the parts and machine work at cost. A grand doesnt go far on a quality big block rebuild, and just my 2 cents, sounds like you may want to invest in electric brakes for your trailer. Pulling a load is not near as tricky as stopping one when the need for a quick stop occurs, good luck on your project
 
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Old Jul 6, 2003 | 12:47 PM
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460 vs 390: Rebuild or Replace

Greg - Right on both counts. I am planning on doing it myself with the assistance of a mechanic friend of mine. He has the contacts at a local machine shop. I've also got an opportunity to do an engine exchange - long block for long block - for $800. Comes with a 1 year warranty.

I have the electric brakes on both my trucks. They help a lot, but the F100 still is a lightweight. When I've got a full load on the trailer, I still need more stopping distance compared to when I'm using the F150.
 
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