Truck is a 1975 F250 360. My present predicament is to buy a crate engine or to rebuild the engine and upgrade to a 390.

In short, I bought my truck a couple weeks ago and it looks like I have a head gasket leak. I would like to think I can handle this myself but my lack of tools,limited know how and uncertainty of the condition of the rest of the engine is making me second guess this. Everything else seems fine but this problem obviously can be very expensive and I'm trying to prepare myself (and my wife) with the possible costs.

Currently, it's in the shop getting a more "professional diagnostic" before I make my final decision. I'm looking for the option that gives me the biggest bang for my buck. I don't want to be taken advantage of so advice from the Ford professionals(You!) might be able to shed some light on my best option and if these estiments seem accurate.
-Estiments for rebuild-$2500-$3500. +cost of new crank,rods and pistons.
- online shopping is showing a crate 390 FE engine runs around $2500. I've never bought a crate engine before so I'm trying to decipher the differences between the $2200 and $19000 options. It's a work truck so something basic and reliable is fine by me.

What would you do do if you were in my position? Thank you!

 

I recently upgraded a few parts on my truck, new carb, intake, cam, exhaust when I had it rebuilt and the rebuild cost to the machine shop was just under $1450 I believe for a 300 I6. The upgraded parts from Summit was $1900 I think. Also replaced the starter, Alt, waterpump, fuel pump along with it all. The rebuild might be the better way to go but that's just me, I'm sure others will disagree saying to get the crate motor as it's easier and possible to get as much HP as you want that way. I'd buy a few upgraded parts and have it rebuilt with the new upgrades

 

If you have to get to work right now, a crate engine drops right in. A few days your back on the road. Rebuilding takes time.

 

I see both sides having pro's. But if it was me I would do a rebuild over a crate engine. Just for the reason what if you have to warranty it. That means probably truck shipping it which is a hassle. Then waiting . I would find a reputable engine builder around you that is driving distance and go that route.Just my opinion

 

Myself I worry too much and won't buy anything like that. I know they have their place like mentioned, I just feel better doing it myself even when it costs me more money and time.

2 years ago I had to dig into a LS3 corvette crate motor for a buddy. It was disappointing to see that coming from a place that was so reputable the rod bearings were in wrong. The chamfer was on the wrong side so I'm not sure how the thing even turned over when they torqued the caps down. The bores also measured bigger in the center than at the ends. The worst part was it was just out of their warranty.

That I believe is worst case scenario but it does happen.

 

I would consider doing the head gasket(s) first and see what's what, provided the head(s) are not cracked. I did my first one a few years ago (on a Honda Civic) and it turned out to be not as daunting as you might think. With a few tools, and the know how of the FTE folks here, you CAN do it!

 

It depends a lot on the specifics... who is doing the reman and who is doing the re-build. I have never bought one, but parts store reman engines have earned a poor reputation. Jasper reman is generally considered pretty good.

The rebuild depends on the machine shop and mechanic doing the work. In my experience, some are good and some not so much. I've had both. As mentioned, the rebuild will have the truck down longer. Any insight you can gain about local shops from folks who have used them would help.

I think your idea to get the current engine checked some more is good... try to figure out what you have to start.