Wouldn't it be fair to say that the more modern engine options like the 302's and 351's that lots of people seem to like, are themselves (along with their various accessaries) already quite old and may, like 70 year old stock engines I've been promoting, need attention before they could be brought back into service? Just a thought to consider. I like stock drivetrains but recognize that for many of our members ( and probably the OP) going in another direction is no big deal--and that's okay.

Jim

 

You are correct. They are quite old. However, they are still available as newly rebuilt crate engines from several reputable suppliers.

They also can be easily mated to more modern transmissions and they can go from carbureted to fuel injected.

There is no right or wrong answer. Since the OP does not have an engine, his options are wide open.

My truck came with a FE big block that did not run. It would cost me about the same to rebuild it as it cost me for a 10 month old, low mileage F-150 Coyote engine. I went from a 650 pound monster to a 450 pound engine that has more horsepower. In essence, I removed the weight from the engine and replaced it with extra weight in the frame, most of which is toward the rear where it is needed.

The beauty of these old trucks, if you are not doing an original restoration, is that the sky is the limit as to what you can do. In my case, the check book was the limit.

Since the OP truck is a larger weight vehicle, I really like the 300 six cylinder, for that kind of truck, I think it would look awesome. I am also an opportunistic purchaser since I do not have an unlimited budget. If I could acquire and rebuild a 300, six, for a reasonable amount, I would seriously consider it.

 

As I recall, ours was a 1982 model F-250. It was bought new, by my dad, and we kept it for about 50-60,000 miles. I drove it quite a bit and really enjoyed it.

 

At the risk of beating a dead horse, I'll take just one more run at this. I admit the case has successfully been made that a "modern" engine can be found for the same price or less than it would cost to purchase and rebuild a stock engine. The point I'm trying to make is that once the decision has been made to go with a non stock engine, other modifications (and expenses) necessarily follow.

It is my belief that most of our members running non stock engines also have non stock transmissions. They probably also have independent front suspensions, disc brakes with power boosters, power steering, master cylinders and brake peddles mounted on the firewall instead of the floor boards, non stock wheels and tires, 12V electrical systems, and replacement non stock exhaust. Many go further and replace the rear axles, suspensions, and differentials--and maybe box their frames--or even go with modern brand new ultra expensive custom built frames.

All of these modifications can add considerably to the costs and time involved in getting that special project truck you inherited, or that caught your eye in someone's yard, back on the road again. In my opinion, the vehicle you end up with at the end of this long and expensive rebuilding process has more in common with your daily driver than it does to a classic old Ford that your dad or grandfather used to drive.


There. I'm done. The horse died, and I'm dismounting with apologies to the OP.

Jim

 

if I were to come across the right engine for the truck that was running and could afford it I would go that route for sure but so far I've found about 4 seized flathead and no running ones although 2 of them are in almost complete trucks that are not priced to bad. a few people have pointed out to me I could spend a whole lot of money trying to make them run again just to find out they are as good as scrap metal on top of that I don't have anywhere to try to completely rebuild an engine so I'd most likely have to pay someone else to do that anyway. If I could find the parts for the right price I'd just Dana 60 the rear axle and 4 barrel the 289 that should be in it and I think I'd be happy but now my dilemma is if I can't find a 289 to go back I it I think I want to go with a 302 and there just happens to be a nice looking one close by I can get for around $800-950 with supposedly a brand new c6 transmission but there's no way to tell how the engine or anything runs and as you said theres going to be other expenses especiallysince i want to carb it. I'm ok with it being more modern, it's the look of the 52 I really like the rest doesn't really matter to me although if I had the original engine it would make my decision a lot easier.