hello i am far from computer savvy and just getting to this point is an hour long accomplishment for me. so if i seem a bit retarded it is because i am. i do not mean that i am litterally retarded, mentally. its more like retarded as in the timing on the engine is retarded, like behind the curve as it were. sorry for the rambling. I purchased a 1962 ford f 250 today. i am excited to say the least. it is not a show truck at all in fact it is in restorable condition and that is about it my current interest is in the engine compartment. the engine that is in the truck is a stock 223 straight six. i was wondering if anyone had an opinion on rebuilding the 223 or if an engine replacement with an alternate engine such as a 300in line six would be an avenue to be explored.

 

Congratulations on the new old truck.

I am a big fan of the 300 six, but the configuration is different from the 223. So though I have not done that swap, I would venture to say that it would be as easy to put a V8 in there. I don't know what your skills/experience/ budget/ time allow for but I would suggest rebuilding the 223. It's a good reliable motor, so unless you are bent on a big performance gain, go with it.

 

Thank you very much Bdox, sounds like reasonable advice. I do like the idea of keeping the truck as stock as possible. I am not a big power guy, more of an "If it ain't broke don't fix it." type.

 

deez nuggs, Welcome to FTE and the 61-66 Forum.

I suggest that you spend some time reading our threads and using the search feature. There are many threads on this forum that address your question.

We hope that you find a new home here, and congrats on the new truck.

John

 

I have a 64 with a 223 and have thought of swaping in a 300 with an auto trans.Here is what I have found out,nobody makes an aftermarket kit for this swap.You can drop a 292 V8 in it it's a direct bolt in if you want a V8.I like my 223 and I'm going to rebuild it.

 

Think!

If the FE and a 300 six share the same engine perches in a 65 66 but in the next hole back?

The pre 65 aftermarket FE engine crossmember and a set of new 300 mounts for 65 up
will put a 300 into a straight axle truck. You must use a rear tail shaft mount type transmission and crossmember in this swap and also change out the oil pan, oil pump and pickup to a rear sump van or four by four pan to clear the crossmember. A front pan will fit but will take a wack from the front axle on a good pothole.

We have a 300 six and and TOD installed into Jrs 62 F250 uni.

Garbz

 

If it ain't broke don't fix it is a wonderful piece of wisdom. With that in mind, what makes you think you have to rebuild the 223 at this time?

 

Garbz- Is that true? I have a '64 with a tired 223, and was thinking about either a 302 or a 300. (I have both). But I really like a warmed over straight 6! I know you can get a 302 mount kit; if what I think you're saying is so, I buy an FE aftermarket crossmember, and use it to mount the 300? That would be cool! Where can I get the crossmember?

 

Hay: ive got a 64 w 223 runs great, looking for headders,need help to find some.

 

Jay

I missed your post....

The FE crossmember as fabricated will place a 300 in between the rails of a 61 to 64...

It will sit further back and need some attention near the steering box.

Carefull measurement with the radiator located and 1 inch of spacing between the rad and fan will get you there. New 65 or 66 240 or 300 mounts will round out the deal.

The 240 300 mounts are made to fit the FE perches.

The only other issue may be with the fan hitting the front mount. This can be easily removed with a grinder and saved, as people are always looking for the front mounts in V8 trucks.

I would recommend Speedway Motors out of Lincoln Nebraska. Speedy Bill has the cheapest crossmembers out there.

We have a warmed over 300 installed in My sons 62 F250 Uni. He wanted the 300 over a 302 for the cool factor.

Garbz

 

A good source for 223 hedder is Clifford, another will be sanderson.

Keep an eye out for old Fenton cast iron hedders, there was a plethora of speed parts avalible for the 223 in the late fifties and sixties.

I sold a few years ago a set of fenton cast tri hedders. A fenton triple two barrell log intake and a vertex magneto for a 223. The equipment is out there....

Garbz

 

My 61 Econoline has a 144 3 speed manual.. Will a 223 fit right in?? Thanks Steve

 

If you can find the bell housing and front mount of 240 used in F350 the 300 fit rite in with no torching or welding. Has to be 65/65.