Is the 351M Garbage?
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Is the 351M Garbage?
I ask this question because I am pondering the thought of buying a 1985 F-150 4x4 with the 351M. It has 140K orig and needs the clutch replaced. Opinions welcomed. Also, when I test drive the truck what should I lookout for particularly?
Thanks
Thanks
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2001
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From: Coutts Canada
They are good motors but ford way over smogged these motors and as stated adove dogged them out bad. However a good cam/carb/intake combo makes these engines come a live, then you can throw in a 400 crank and rods to get a 400 then put some flat top pistons in it to make that cam work and with the help of them big ol' cleveland heads these motors can approach 400 horse very fast.
Posting Guru
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 2,297
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From: Indiana
Yeah, if the enigne is original, its a 351W.
Watch the gauges, listen for strange noises or grinding.
Watch the gauges, listen for strange noises or grinding.
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Elder User
Joined: Jan 2003
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as stated above the heavy smogged on these motors robbed it's power. They are prone to having low oil pressure like stated, but will run forever like that. Both my 351m and 400 I love good low end TQ that a 4x4 needs. this link will help http://www.projectbronco.com/Technic...the_rumors.htm
but as stated above they stooped puutin them in trucks by then. unless swapped in it's a 351w. count the tappet cover bolts, if 8 it's a 351m/400.
but as stated above they stooped puutin them in trucks by then. unless swapped in it's a 351w. count the tappet cover bolts, if 8 it's a 351m/400.
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Posting Guru
Joined: Sep 2003
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From: Near Wamego KS
We had 70's pickups with the 351M and 400 and had very good results with them - decent power and mileage (compared to 390s and 300 I6). Very doubtful a 80's half ton of any year has a 351M, from 1980 on they where pretty much restricted to the F250 & F350 due to the easier emissions on the heavier heavier pickups. The exception is the Bronco - for some reason they got them too in 80, 81, and 82.
If its a 351W in is easily interchangable with a 302 and lots of parts are available. If its high mileage I would make sure to change out the timing gears and chain - not an especially difficult job and it gives you a chance to back flush the radiator and check out your water pump. The nylon coating on the timing gears will break off when worn and circulate through the engine wreaking havic where ever it goes - had a very bad experience with that.
If its a 351W in is easily interchangable with a 302 and lots of parts are available. If its high mileage I would make sure to change out the timing gears and chain - not an especially difficult job and it gives you a chance to back flush the radiator and check out your water pump. The nylon coating on the timing gears will break off when worn and circulate through the engine wreaking havic where ever it goes - had a very bad experience with that.