Engine recommendations please
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Junior User
Joined: Oct 2008
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From: Sandy, UT
Engine recommendations please
I have a 1979 F-250. I've been researching engine sizes and specs for awhile now and would like some opinions to help with my decision. I don't have anything to tow, so torque is not a big issue, but would like to have it due to the size of the truck. I was thinking 400 or 460. I know some people do not have a good opinion of the 400, some opinions would be much appreciated.
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Joined: Feb 2009
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From: Stillwater, OK
460 all the way! You will not be disappointed. Even a bone stock 460 will do everything that you need it to and then some. Much more dependable and just a tougher engine compared to the 400. A good 351W will do well for you as well if you build it right. Again though, a stock 460 is tough enough, as is, to do anything you need. Good luck and Happy Easter.
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Joined: Feb 2009
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From: Stillwater, OK
Are we looking for all out horsepower or just a good farm truck that may need some torque from time to time? IMHO as far as abuse that a 400 will take, it doesn't hold a candle to the 385 series engines.
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Freshman User
Joined: Feb 2009
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From: Stillwater, OK
Obviously I am biased, but do you have any idea what a 460 will put out if you invested $2000? Ported/polished C9VEs or D0VEs+cam+good intake+and a carb to keep up= my tail lights. Good luck. The important thing is to have fun building it. If you aren't going to drive it like you stole it, then go with a cheap small block. If you want something that will actually make that truck act right in any condition, then go with a 385 Series.
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Elder User
Joined: Jan 2004
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From: NW Kans
it probably has a 400 already doesnt it? and does it run? if your not looking for max power id stick with it. you already have it so you dont have to buy a core. Straight up timing set, small rv cam, dual exhaust done right, 4bbl intake and carb. Stock rebuild is much more dependable than race motors. these few mods will increase performance over the socalled "pig" that everybody makes them out to be. I'm assuming 2wd cause you mentioned towing but not offroading. 400 MAY possibly be cheaper to build. i knew everyone would say 460 but for what you need 400 should be plenty and easier.
i can feel the hatemail coming now...
i can feel the hatemail coming now...
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Junior User
Joined: Oct 2008
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From: Sandy, UT
It's 4wheel drive, and already has a tired 460 in it. I'm not a mechanic and am only going on basic knowledge here, I think more horsepower is what I am looking for. I was planning on rebuilding the 460, but wasn't sure if I should try something different. I was considering a remanufactured 400 for a few more dollars.
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It's 4wheel drive, and already has a tired 460 in it. I'm not a mechanic and am only going on basic knowledge here, I think more horsepower is what I am looking for. I was planning on rebuilding the 460, but wasn't sure if I should try something different. I was considering a remanufactured 400 for a few more dollars.
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Rebuild the 460 with a healthy cam, headers, 4bbl, 9.5:1 CR and have the transmission rebuilt as well and you'll have a complete working drive train. And you'll have a great setup. Goin' with a 400 in your present state means gettin' engine perches, transmission, the engine itself, and other things I'm not thinkin' of right off hand.
I'm with Shane, 460.
But get that CR up or you'll have poor gas mileage. Will anyway, but not as poor.
I'm with Shane, 460.
But get that CR up or you'll have poor gas mileage. Will anyway, but not as poor.
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i guess i have to agree with Bart to,,i overlooked the engine perches which can sometimes be a pain in the ***,,go with the 460, get some dove heads, cam with some low end torque, carb and if you feel like just having a beast have it bored while you have it all apart
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Joined: Jan 2004
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From: NW Kans
now that we have more info, 4wd and already with 460, thats what id go with too. but people still tend to overbuild them for a driver. Dove heads arent necessary and are hard to find. d3ve heads are good, get them checked out, rebuilt, etc. and gasket match the exhaust ports if anything. stock manifolds are fine, will help bottom end, and much less of a pain in the ***. Once again straight up double roller timing set, good quality RV cam, aluminum 4bbl intake w carb of your choice. Bore as necessary to clean up cylinder walls, preferably not over .030 although up to .060 probably wont hurt your block.