351m engine help
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Cross-Country
Joined: Jan 2025
Posts: 57
Likes: 3
351m engine help
I am rebuilding a 351m from my 1980 f-350 and it is currently at the machine shop getting bored to .40 over. Will I be able to use the stock cam? I assume not but want to make sure before I spend money on a new one.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 5,651
Likes: 1,157
From: Tolland, CT
You can use the stock cam. it doesn't care what size pistons you have.
Depending on the shop, they may have thoughts on a better cam if you want a little more power, as if you were towing.
What are your plans for the truck ?
Depending on the shop, they may have thoughts on a better cam if you want a little more power, as if you were towing.
What are your plans for the truck ?
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 5,651
Likes: 1,157
From: Tolland, CT
Towing, a big trailer or just a small lawn mower size trailer. We need info.
If you don't mine spending the money for a cam kit, you can do some research on, say Summit Racing, Jegs, Crane Cams, etc They all have great customer service and tech support. They will be more than happy to help spend your money.
If you don't mine spending the money for a cam kit, you can do some research on, say Summit Racing, Jegs, Crane Cams, etc They all have great customer service and tech support. They will be more than happy to help spend your money.
Moderator
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 56,966
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From: Virginia
With the quality of the parts you get now, I would stick with the original cam if the machine shop thinks it's ok. I have never felt any seat of the pants difference with small camshaft changes on a otherwise stock engine.
If the machine shop thinks you should change it, see what brand they recommend for long service.
If the machine shop thinks you should change it, see what brand they recommend for long service.
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2013
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Can't help with the cam question, but no matter what you choose, be very careful with the break-in procedure. If the shop offers a warranty, be sure to follow their recommendations exactly. My sad tale about break-in here:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...brication.html
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Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 5,651
Likes: 1,157
From: Tolland, CT
Yes, and what color is the trailer?
Can't help with the cam question, but no matter what you choose, be very careful with the break-in procedure. If the shop offers a warranty, be sure to follow their recommendations exactly. My sad tale about break-in here:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...brication.html
Can't help with the cam question, but no matter what you choose, be very careful with the break-in procedure. If the shop offers a warranty, be sure to follow their recommendations exactly. My sad tale about break-in here:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...brication.html
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Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 5,651
Likes: 1,157
From: Tolland, CT
The head bolts would be the only ones I would do. as all the others are just bolts. ARP is who I would use, but if your not looking for high Performance stuff, just price them from your local auto parts store.
Moderator
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 56,966
Likes: 2,728
From: Virginia
The head bolts on these older engines can be re-used, unlike most of the newer engines that have torque to yield bolts. I hope you have a book there to help you put it back together if you never have done this before.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Feb 2016
Posts: 817
Likes: 27
They’re hard to find, but the Tom Monroe book on 335 and 385 series engines is good. Used it for my 460 build. I have an OEM manual as well but the book is laid out in a nice chronological order with the right info.
More Turbo
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 724
Likes: 26
From: Southeast Salt Lake, UT
You might want to go over to the Engine forum for the 335 Block engines.
I asked a similar question as I have a wiped cam lobe. Turns out you can use a 351 C cam for a 4 barrel, it's not extreme but gets you a little more lift. Its not listed as an option by any parts supplier for the 351M. I already have a 4 bbl edelbrock carb and intake as well.
I asked a similar question as I have a wiped cam lobe. Turns out you can use a 351 C cam for a 4 barrel, it's not extreme but gets you a little more lift. Its not listed as an option by any parts supplier for the 351M. I already have a 4 bbl edelbrock carb and intake as well.