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Okay I'm getting ready to do a cv font axle swap. Just wondering what I should do. The only problem I have with the 292 is just getting to 60mph is hard. So I'm considering swapping it and the fordomatic out for something else
Sounds like you should be considering swapping out the rear end gearing... The 292 and Ford-o-matic with an appropriate gear should have no issues getting to 65 mph
292 Y-Block, poked, stroked, ported, and in pretty good tune. So far, this one can get to 91mph in 1/4 mile in 15.26 seconds - and that is only in 3rd gear (it has a 5 speed). I run out of track before I can shift to 4th. I've made a driveline change, hoping to beat that in a couple months.
Previously, a 292 with unknown history, probably pretty stock, a '59 or early 60s based on the block number. This one had no issue getting to 60, though it didn't get there as quickly as the current one.
By 1964, the 292 was severely detuned. If that is the only Y Block you have experienced, then you have not truly experienced a Y. It's also 51 years old now, so it is likely that something needs attention and is preventing it from reaching 60mph.
I encourage you to research the Y to learn about it's potential. It absolutely will provide adequate power for your truck, knocking on the door of 600hp at Engine Masters, and producing around 1000hp in E85 turbo charged applications.
That said, since you are doing the CV swap, a newer engine may be no more difficult to put in than the Y, since you will probably have to make or buy mounts either way you go.
Do you know how hard it would be to add power steering to the y block? That's kinda what's holding me back I can handle having some trouble getting to 60mph
A 292 in good condition shouldn't have trouble getting to 60 mph. Stopping? Well, that's another story: 1961 brakes in excellent condition rate far behind modern brakes!
You also mention your truck has a Fordomatic. Could either your engine's or transmission's current condition be a problem?
My '61 F-350 has a (mostly) stock 292 medium-duty Y Block. It's got stock compression, stock 2-bbl carb, stock exhaust, etc. The only deviations from stock were an ever-so-slightly-hotter camshaft from Mummert and minor balancing and port matching.
Now my truck has its original 5.13 diff, which may give it some zip off the line but doesn't exactly help at speeds above 60 mph!
Honestly it could be me. This is the first classic vehicle I've dd it gets to 60mph but it's screaming and dosent seem like it has much left. I also get a little nervous at those speeds and don't try pushing it anymore. I honestly rather keep it as stock as possible. Other then suspension it's just not practical for me to keep the old worn out stuff. Plus I want a good stance.
You should be nervous, if it hasn't been gone through from stem to stern. Bearings, brakes, steering components - drag links, king pins, tie rod ends. Leaf springs and shackle bushings, shocks. Even when new these trucks won't handle quite like modern independent suspension trucks. Straight axles. These old trucks are tough as nails but they were beat hard like a rented mule and most everything pushed way beyond service life and specification. Get a grease gun and the Shop Manual for 1961 and study it. The manual sez lube every 500 miles, hardly anyone did this. That's why today they bitch about manual steering that is hard to turn and is sloppy, or worn out kingpins etc. The brakes on these trucks work pretty good but they are not power assisted. If you need to stop fast you better have ate your Wheaties that morning, have to really stand on it.
With the coal cart axle suspension and the rest of it 60 to 70 is plenty, even that is only suitable for wide open interstate freeway.
Mine is a 64 f100 with a 292. 60 is no problem and 80 is no problem it has 4:10 gearing so it gets to both speeds pretty quick. Any motor you put in is going to scream at 60 if you leave your more than likely 4:10 gearing that is in your 3/4 ton pickup.
