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I have a 1972 Ford F100 with a 360 engine in it. I have a couple of questions regarding the engine. First of all, is there any way I can tell if it is the original engine? Or even get a close estimate on the casting number off the block?
Also, it has been rebuilt in the time that I have had it in my possession, however, I have water and oil mixing somehow. I've changed the oil and it still mixes and the radiator does hold water very long. What could this possibly be? I realize it could be several different things but I am hoping you all can help me narrow it down.
If I can determine that it is the original engine then I am going to do everything I can to save it.
Also, if I find that the block is busted or something along those lines, what engine would you all recommend?
First off, check your VIN. If you have a 2WD 1972 F100 that was built with a 360, the VIN will start with F10Y, with the Y designating a 360.
Ford never numbers matched things, but you can look at the casting number for a date on the engine and I'd also expect it to say TE for Truck Engine somewhere. The casting number is on the lower right rear by the starter. You'll probably have to do a little gunk removal first. It'll start with a letter and then a number, most likely a D for 1970 decade and then a 2 for 1972, but it could also be something from earlier like a D1 for '71, D0 for '70, or even possibly a C9 for '69.
If your VIN has a Y and the engine casting number starts with something like a D2TE, it's probably your original engine.