Possible engine swap help
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From: meadville
Possible engine swap help
I recently purchased a 1978 Ford F-150 4X4. In this truck, I found a 351 Cleveland, C6 transmission and a NP transfer case (aluminum from a mid 80's Bronco). The engine was completely rebuilt by the previous owner before he was tragicly killed in a motorcycle crash. My problem came when I tried to start it. I replaced the starter and slenoid before any attempt was made. The engine will not turn over, even by hand.
This truck sat idle for around 5 years after the rebuild without being started. I found rust on the spark plugs. The oil on the dipstick looked ok. My question is, what are the most obvious things that I should check and how do I go about fixing this?
This is my first truck build and I don't want to screw things up. Also, will a 400 swap out with the same tranny?
This truck sat idle for around 5 years after the rebuild without being started. I found rust on the spark plugs. The oil on the dipstick looked ok. My question is, what are the most obvious things that I should check and how do I go about fixing this?
This is my first truck build and I don't want to screw things up. Also, will a 400 swap out with the same tranny?
Last edited by burghfan1972; Jan 25, 2004 at 02:06 PM.
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From: meadville
Unfortunately, it is a 351 C. I did all the research. I was forced to replace the c6 to one with the small block bolt pattern, because it didn't line up. This truck was a bit of a basket case.
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No, a 400 will not bolt up to a 351c bellhousing. You will need to find a bellhousing/tranny from a 351m/400/429/460.
How much rust is inside the engine?? Good posibility the rings rusted fast to the cyl wall. Take a good flashlight and see if you can see any rust on the cyl walls. You can try putting some oil in the cyls and attempt turning it over in a few days. Worst case you'll need to pull the engine apart to free it up.
How much rust is inside the engine?? Good posibility the rings rusted fast to the cyl wall. Take a good flashlight and see if you can see any rust on the cyl walls. You can try putting some oil in the cyls and attempt turning it over in a few days. Worst case you'll need to pull the engine apart to free it up.
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From: Boise, ID
Originally posted by burghfan1972
Unfortunately, it is a 351 C. I did all the research.
Unfortunately, it is a 351 C. I did all the research.
I'd take a C over an M any day.
I second 79_250RangerLariat and LxMan's suggestion about stuck rings. If your spark plugs had rust on them, chances are the cylinder walls are rusty.
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From: meadville
Thanks for the help guys. I was just under the impression that the 351 C was a poor engine for trucks. I am new to this so thanx for the help.
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From: denver
If the clevland was rebuilt, I would just tear it down, do a quick cylinder hone with new rings and bearings. Summit has rering kits for ~$160. Then you will have an awesome good-as-new motor. I would also take a clevland over a modified any day! You probably can keep the cam and lifters in the block.
Just my $.02
Just my $.02
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