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This is kind of a general question, but here goes. My dad is thinking of replacing the flathead 6 in his '46 1/2 ton with a 300 and auto trans. We were wondering what years were the 300's made, and which years have carbs, instead of EFI. Also, when did they make the most power and torque? Anything in particular we need to watch out for when shopping around for one? I don't really know these 6's well as I usually run V8's in my trucks. Any help you guys can give is appreciated.
Gary M.
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(2)46 1/2 tons-1 daily driver
47 1/2 ton-project truck
57 Ford FL 500-4 dr-312/AT
70 Mustang SportsRoof-351W/AT
72 Olds Vista Cruiser-350/AT
88 Bronco II, 500,000+ mi.
The 240 and 300 I6's appeared in the early sixties, I think. They were discontinued in about '97 due to the smaller engine compartment when the pickups were restyled that year. Either would be a good choice for your dad's truck. I've had four Ford pickups, each with the 300. Three carburated and the most current EFI. I think EFI came in about '85 or '86. Its a better setup than the carbed models, IMHO, but more complicated to work on and not really better gas mileage or performance. I would go for a carbed model, before all the smog junk appeared...say '75 or earlier. This would probably carry a C4 or C6 auto. A real sound combination. Good luck.
Thanks for the info, I least I have a better idea of what we need to look for when we go out looking for a donor vehicle. Hopefully we can get his truck on the road before the year is over. Thanks again.
Gary M.
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46 truck-6cyl now, 302/C4 soon
46 truck-flathead 8, 4spd
47 truck-getting a 429/C6
57 Ford FL 500-4 dr-312/AT
70 Mustang fastback-351W/FMX
72 Olds Vista Cruiser-350/AT
88 Bronco II, 500,000+ mi.
Anywhere from '79 to '73 would be a good choice. To keep the swap simple...the later trucks have feedback carbs & computers...younger than that has the fuel injection...go with the carbed enigine and check out clifford.com for add ons..some broncos and vans have the same motor too.
1988 was the first year for EFI. I had one of the first. Couldn't buy spark plugs or filters for months except the FL1 oil filter.
Had a 1977 block that I dropped in a F100 from 1967 when the 240 started knocking. Used the intake and exhaust from the 240 with a 1 barrel carb. Had a 3 speed and got me 18 to 20mpg. Ran great, made as much power or more than any I have had since.
1987 was the first year or fully EFI. 1986 supposedly had optional EFI but I don't know of anyone thats ever seen one. 1984-1986 had the TFI ignition with the feedback carb and a computer. 1983 and back had a regular 1bbl carb. The 70's models had less vacuum lines and whatnot so that would be an easier swap.
Thanks to everybody who helped us out here. Looks like we'll be looking for an early '70's 300 to stay away from all the vacuum and smog junk and computer stuff. Thanks again all.
Gary M.
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46 truck-6cyl now, 302/C4 soon
46 truck-flathead 8, 4spd
47 truck-getting a 429/C6
57 Ford FL 500-4 dr-312/AT
70 Mustang fastback-351W/FMX
72 Olds Vista Cruiser-350/AT
88 Bronco II, 500,000+ mi.