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I find it perplexing that many FTE owners will put foreign parts in their truck, e.g., Toyota steering, GM brakes, etc. but to put a Chevy engine in a Ford is considered sacrilegious.
I just replaced my Chevy 350 with a 383 stroker create engine; great low end torque. It was basically a short block with aluminum heads, and roller cam. I used most of the parts from the 350) except the damper. When it comes to parts availability and reliability, you cannot beat the Chevy small block, imho.
I used to work on a 292 Y-block in my teenage years; I was always in the garage working on it ('56 Ford Customline). I grew to dislike the engine; leaking rear main seal and oiling problems. However, I did like the sound.
I would stay with the Chevy. It may not be period accurate but they are easy to work on and there are prolific aftermarket parts.
I am going to keep the SBC. I have plenty of other things I need to do first. I still need the measurements to make sure I get the motor in the right place after I box the frame in.
I'm a Ford motor in a Ford vehicle person. I like GM products, but not enough to want one for myself. If you are considering a small block Ford go with a 351W based motor. They make a lot more power than a 302 and can be stroked to 427 cubic inches if you are concerned about maximum power. If you have to purchase one, look for a 1995 or newer motor as those blocks are hydraulic roller cam compatible and come setup with hydraulic roller cams from the factory. Anything older and you will need to use retrofit tie-bar style hydraulic roller lifters or a retrofit hydraulic roller cam to convert to a hydraulic roller setup.
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalytic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Slideshow: Called the Fortress, the 850-horsepower pickup combines Raptor underpinnings with military-inspired features, survival equipment, and a starting price of $285,000.