I bought a 85 F250 that started out in life as a diesel. at some point before I bought it the diesel was swapped for a rebuilt gas engine-a 460 I think. How can I confirm the displacement? And how can I tell what year the original motor was built? Is there an ID number to be found somewhere? Any help would be appreciated.

 

get a haynes manual, it has pages on engine id by valve cover bolt and intake bolt numbers
Also pull a car fax on your truck Vin. you will find out a bunch.

 

google your vin number

 

thanks guys, I'll try your suggestions.

 

Look for casting numbers. That won't tell much, but will give an idea of the vintage. Look for numbers like those listed here.

Kelly hotrod - Ford Engines Page 2

(check page 3 for head casting numbers)

It is probably a 460, as they are more common and were produced later than the 429.

How is it for power? How does it run? What do you want to do with it, other than be able to buy the right parts now and then?

 

thanks 85e... I'm trying to find parts for it mostly. it's in good shape, and has lots of power, but I want to upgrade a few things.

 

If the engine was swapped how will checking the vin help tell what it is.

 

I found the casting numbers finally (can't always get to things right away). One on the block near the starter reads "D1VE". I can't see more without pulling the starter. Head number reads "D4VE-C1B". Does that mean I have a '71 block with '74 heads?
What does the "C1B" stand for?