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1967 - 1972 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks Discuss the Bumpsides Ford Truck

How would 'YOU' build it?

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Old Dec 12, 2016 | 08:52 AM
  #1  
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From: nunya
How would 'YOU' build it?

Ok, so my 72 F250 Explorer is going to become my daily driver/ BBQ trailer hauler. So I have questions and need opinions.

First off, I also have a 1989 F250 with the 5.8efi/C6 that runs GREAT, I also have a T18 with hyd bellhousing for the 5.8, just need clutch components.
Now for the 72...It has the typical 390/C6...YES its a 390 already confirmed. Runs GREAT too.....
This truck is going to be used to pull my BBQ smoker trailer that Im building, kinda like a rolling business card. And it will be driven everyday. On occasion it will tow a car trailer, but thats a rare instance. So, should I replace the 390/C6 with the 5.8 and either trans? I will also swap in the EFI. OR should I leave the 390 in there?
Plus I plan to lower the rear just a bit to level it out. I will install airbags to help with the load when towing. I want to use rear shackles and hangers.
Thanks
 
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Old Dec 12, 2016 | 08:54 AM
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Leave the 390. No question. It's got more power for what you do. Switching to the 5.8 won't gain you anything, but it will loose power and thus, efficiency.
 
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Old Dec 12, 2016 | 10:12 AM
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2x with the AZ kid.
If you just want something to do then replace the 390 with a 240-300 I-6 since it just a BBQ smoker you'll be toting around.

But at least it will be little easier on gas an it's a much easier swap if you just feel the need to do something.

Gas prices will be on the rise as a few main supplying countries will be cutting back on production out put in 2017+ so the surplus of extra gas will drop so to increase higher profits.
Orich
 
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Old Dec 12, 2016 | 06:12 PM
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3X. I'd leave the 390. Do everything you can for it to get a little better mileage. Pertronix, MAJOR tune-up, play with the jets, headers, free flowing exhaust, etc.
 
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Old Dec 12, 2016 | 08:57 PM
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You can always install efi on the 390 ant a 5 speed with overdrive to increasedrivability and mileage if you desire. I would do a electronic dizzy upgrade, headers and duals for sure. That 390 is more effient than most people realize.
 
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Old Dec 12, 2016 | 09:21 PM
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I also vote 390. I've owned 3 of those efi 5.8s and none of them got better mileage than a 390
 
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Old Dec 12, 2016 | 09:37 PM
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You're missing one good option- Throw an E4OD behind the 351w, get mileage.
 
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Old Dec 13, 2016 | 08:26 AM
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From: nunya
OK, so 390 it is. As for EFI, I plan on putting TBI on it( i can hear the crackle of the fires starting..lol) only for drivability reason. I'm going to look at different fuel tanks for behind the axle....Fullsize Jeepers use 97 S10 Blazer 2dr tanks, theyre 25-27g(I think).
I wish I could spare the money for the HD Heidts front suspension, but right now thats not happening.
 
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Old Dec 13, 2016 | 08:33 AM
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If it aint broke don't fix it.
 
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Old Dec 13, 2016 | 10:06 AM
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HD front suspension? I don't know if anything more heavy duty than twin I beams. Especially on f250.
 
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