So I finally got an old Ford pickup. Its somthing ive wanted for a long time but had been putting it off untill now. So I want to do a mild restoration on it, and obviously the motor is on the list. Its a 360 w/ a 2 barrel carb. So just a couple quick basic questions.

1, I want to switch to a 4 barrel carb. Is there a set factory cast iron heads out there that I should look for for this? Or are the ones it comes with adequate, with some modification?

2, Ive seen some posts about a 390 crank, but I dont really understand what I gain from this, can anyone, in laymens terms enlighten me please.

Im going to rebuild the motor thats in it, and just modify a little bit to improve its performance and these are two things that peaked my intrest.

One last question I had was about the rear end. I know this is an engine forums, but im here, and im sure there are enough Ford gurus here to eliminate the need for a second post. I wanted to add a spool for positive traction, and a set of 4.11 gears. What spline axel came in the 73 f-100? Im not sure if its 28 or 31 spline. Or is this somthing that im going to have to get numbers off of the housing or somthing?

Thanks in advance for any help on these questions

 

Welcome to FTE

To find out whether your truck has 28 or 31 splined axle shafts (both were available), you'll need to find the rear axle ID tag code and post what it is.

The tag was originally under one of the bolts that attaches the carrier to the housing, it was usually installed at 5 o'clock.

Do not be surprised if this tag is missing.

The tag itself does not list the splines, but with a few minutes of research, I can tell you what splined count axleshafts you have.

The Warranty Plate AXLE code does not decode the axle shafts, the rear axle ID tag code itself is required.

 

390 crank, rods, and an overbore/pistons will turn the 360 into a 390+ Depending on the use of the truck I'd really think this through. If it's going to be beat on as a service vehicle, the 360 is likely the best bet. Peppy runaround truck, with light duty 390!!

Bill, the parts yard near me has at least a 100 axles laying out in one corner. Of which at lest 40% are 9"ers A list to carry along next time would be the bomb! I'd like to locate a 3.98 or higher 31 spline if it exists in the pile. TIA