I have a 58 F-100 with a 223 6 cyl. 3 speed on the tree. I would like to put a v-8 and automatic floor shift. What would be the easiest conversion to use, and should I change the rear end too? What problems does this create?

 

Welcome Frank-
It depends on how much you want to spend and your skills and how you plan to use the truck. A good combo for cruising is a 302 with an AOD. To get decent mileage you would need a rearend gear in the 3.50:1 to 3.70:1 range. Do you know what you have now? If you are going more HP you probably should upgrade the brakes also. Might want to consider disc on the front. Then there is the steering and power steering is sure nice. The problem is it is hard to stop at just one modification. Decide how you want to use the truck first and go from there.

 

WHAT AN UNDERSTATEMENT THAT IS!!!!

 

Frank, Welcome to F.T.E!! ..You won't find a better place to go for info on your truck!..I just wandered thru your gallery, Nice Ride!! As far as modifications........
Maybe I'll quote George Thorogood.."
LEAVE THIS_ONE ALONE!!,..just kidding,the sky's the limit!

 

Ford Y-block is a bolt-in. I switched my 223 for a 292 and I love it. Plenty of power with a 4bbl, awesome sound, and an awesome-looking period motor. It's reliable enough for me to use as my daily.

 

Frank, I agree with Kooper, I have the Y-block 292 in mine. I bought a set of Headers from LMC and they fit perfect. You can also put a C4 behind it. There are a cuople of places that sell the conversion to Y-Block. Go for it man.

Vern