Some advice from the experts please
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Some advice from the experts please
i am looking at buying a 1970 F-100. it has a 390, auto and a 9" rear. my goal is to build what i think the lightining would have looked like in 1970. some of my questions are where can i go to decode the vin, and has anyone else started or completed a project like this one. i dont know much about the 390 engine, would it be better to just start with a new motor like a 428.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jun 1999
Posts: 24,552
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From: Creedmoor, North Carolina
Chris, There is a VIN Decoder on this site. Look at the top of the page and click on Articles/Specs.
While the truck in question could have a 390 in it, it is very likely a 360. This can only be determined by measuring the stroke. The 428 is the largest of the FE engine family and would be a little more costly to rebuild than a 390.
There is a guy near Raleigh NC that combined a 66 and a Lightening cab. The truck was at Carlisle last year. Do a lot of planning before you cut, because from what I saw it was a huge undertaking. It would not be a good first project.
good luck
John
While the truck in question could have a 390 in it, it is very likely a 360. This can only be determined by measuring the stroke. The 428 is the largest of the FE engine family and would be a little more costly to rebuild than a 390.
There is a guy near Raleigh NC that combined a 66 and a Lightening cab. The truck was at Carlisle last year. Do a lot of planning before you cut, because from what I saw it was a huge undertaking. It would not be a good first project.
good luck
John
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 9,893
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From: Ohio
John covered most of it.
The one question I have is "what exactly do you classify as a Lightning?". More power plus a better suspension?
Most of that could be handled with easy bolt on(lowering kit, shocks, motor add-ons). So I don't see most of it as too technical, but I guess if you plan on some serious mods to body/interior then I suppose it could get pretty indepth.
I could see the truck, a shortbed, lowered with 18" wheels, a 390 with Vortech supercharger(Or a mini Roots style blower), painted red or black(like the '97 style trucks). Interesting idea.
The one question I have is "what exactly do you classify as a Lightning?". More power plus a better suspension?
Most of that could be handled with easy bolt on(lowering kit, shocks, motor add-ons). So I don't see most of it as too technical, but I guess if you plan on some serious mods to body/interior then I suppose it could get pretty indepth.
I could see the truck, a shortbed, lowered with 18" wheels, a 390 with Vortech supercharger(Or a mini Roots style blower), painted red or black(like the '97 style trucks). Interesting idea.
Ford Parts Specialist
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 88,826
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From: Simi Valley, CA
Originally Posted by chris5
i am looking at buying a 1970 F-100. it has a 390, auto and a 9" rear. my goal is to build what i think the lightining would have looked like in 1970. Some of my questions are where can i go to decode the vin?
The 4th digit of the VIN is the code for the engine. 1968/72: H = 390 2V; Y = 360 2V.
Sample VIN from a 1970 F100: F10YRG32123
Last edited by NumberDummy; Jul 17, 2007 at 04:09 PM.
