1964 ford stepside Engine
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From: Johnsburg US
1964 ford stepside Engine
I am wondering what would be the best engine size to put in a 1964 Ford Stepside pick-up. Right now it is a 4 speed with a straight 6. I want to put a V8 in it. What size should i go with thanks JDNS64
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1964 ford stepside Engine
Do you want to keep the 4-speed or maybe change to automatic? The V-8 in '64 would have been a 292ci. A 312ci will also bolt in. If you're looking to do more of an updated swap, I like the 302's and 351W's. There are many options. Just all depends on what you want.
Mike
Mike
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Joined: Sep 2001
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From: Kelowna
1964 ford stepside Engine
What are you looking for a easy swap, or period correct engine, reliability, performance or perhaps fuel economy. With the right parts anything from a small block, to fe, to big block will fit it all depends on your talent,pocket book,and desire to get dirty
Eric
Eric
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Joined: Nov 2000
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From: Texas
1964 ford stepside Engine
Most of the folks here are going to tell you to find any FE you can, 360,390, etc. Since these are "ALMOST" drop in motors.
I elected to go with a 351W from a 1974 Mercury since I have to install a crossmember and mounts anyway, it just seemed natural to get an engine that would get good milage as well as have a little more power.
Selection just comes down to personal preference. Decide what you want to use the truck for: Pulling trailers, racing, cruising, long road trips, etc. then pick a combination that will deliver.
Look for a vehicle with complete running gear for sale. Try the 0-300 dollar range. Get it running while still in the vehicle, test drive it, then pull it and work on it until your ready to tear down your truck.
As a side note, check out my homepage link below and check out the 351W I picked up. I will also be putting an update on there soon detailing the installion of a Mustang II kit from Fatman Fabricatons.
Check it out!
In the end, only you need to be happy with the results.
I elected to go with a 351W from a 1974 Mercury since I have to install a crossmember and mounts anyway, it just seemed natural to get an engine that would get good milage as well as have a little more power.
Selection just comes down to personal preference. Decide what you want to use the truck for: Pulling trailers, racing, cruising, long road trips, etc. then pick a combination that will deliver.
Look for a vehicle with complete running gear for sale. Try the 0-300 dollar range. Get it running while still in the vehicle, test drive it, then pull it and work on it until your ready to tear down your truck.
As a side note, check out my homepage link below and check out the 351W I picked up. I will also be putting an update on there soon detailing the installion of a Mustang II kit from Fatman Fabricatons.
Check it out!
In the end, only you need to be happy with the results.
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Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 87
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From: Marietta, GA USA
1964 ford stepside Engine
Understand where you're going before you start is my best advice. Virtually any kind of later model motor can be made to fit.
I went the 5.0 Mustang GT drivetrain route with the FI and AOD. Lots of work (mostly due to the fuel injection) but very quick and 20 MPG. Also cruises great on the highway due to the overdrive. I've a friend that just transplanted a 5.0 into a later model truck without the FI and is also very happy with it.
As has already been said, only you have to be happy with it when you're done.
Have fun!!
I went the 5.0 Mustang GT drivetrain route with the FI and AOD. Lots of work (mostly due to the fuel injection) but very quick and 20 MPG. Also cruises great on the highway due to the overdrive. I've a friend that just transplanted a 5.0 into a later model truck without the FI and is also very happy with it.
As has already been said, only you have to be happy with it when you're done.
Have fun!!
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Joined: Apr 2002
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From: Johnsburg US
1964 ford stepside Engine
I want a motor that is fast and will throw you back in your seat for a reasonable price. Fuel economy doesn't really matter to me, and i'm not sure if i wnat to keep it a manual. Should i change it to an automatic? If i do what are the advantages of a auto? How hard is it to change a 4-speed manual to an automatic?
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Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 87
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From: Marietta, GA USA
1964 ford stepside Engine
Many of the engine/transmission combinations that were present in newer trucks can bolt right into your chassis with minimal work. Typically the biggest issues are cooling for the transmission, finding the correct driveshaft, and the shifter.
If you use an aftermarket floor shifter, that part gets much easier.
For automatic choices, I do prefer the small block engine and AOD combination. But if your interested in some engine larger than the 302/351W, your best bet is to stick to the C-6's which can be built to handle large amounts of torque and horsepower.
If you use an aftermarket floor shifter, that part gets much easier.
For automatic choices, I do prefer the small block engine and AOD combination. But if your interested in some engine larger than the 302/351W, your best bet is to stick to the C-6's which can be built to handle large amounts of torque and horsepower.
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