1969 Ford F-100 Receives a New FE Stroker
Yes, you can install a new IFS in an old F-100 and still keep FE power. Here's how to get it done.
1. Keeping It in the Family
Independent front suspension (IFS) upgrades are an incredibly popular swap for old Ford trucks. And for good reason, because replacing the stock twin I-beam setup makes a big difference in both handling and ride quality. But in the past, installing IFS meant that you were also eliminating your original mounting points for the FE engine, which made keeping it pretty difficult. But now, Fatman Fabrication has rolled out a solution for that problem - their new tubular engine mount kit. And just in the nick of time, because Hot Rod and their pal Danny “Paloma” Valenzuela wanted to go IFS while also retaining FE power in Valenzuela's 1969 F-100.
>>Join the conversation about installing a new IFS in an old F-100 right here in Ford-trucks.com.
2. Not Your Average FE
Of course, we aren't talking about your average 360 here. The engine destined for the F-100 has been filled out into a 434ci stroker, backed up by a modern TCI Automotive 4L60E automatic transmission. Installing it, along with the engine mount kit, proved to be a pretty easy task that only requires a few fabrication and welding skills. Plus, you can locate the engine lower and further back than stock, which results in better weight distribution!
>>Join the conversation about installing a new IFS in an old F-100 right here in Ford-trucks.com.
3. Putting it all Together
To ensure a good fit, Hot Rod began the install by setting the truck on jack stands and checking to make sure the frame was level - side to side and front to back. Then they used the engine and transmission to determine where the tubular mounts should be placed. The Fatman kit uses 1968 Ford Galaxie motor mounts attached to the FE block via adapter plates. The mounts then use a through bolt design to connect to Fatman's tubular mount.
>>Join the conversation about installing a new IFS in an old F-100 right here in Ford-trucks.com.
4. Perfect Positioning
Before the mounting location for the engine is finalized, you'll want to make sure it's perfectly centered between the framerails. Then, drop and move the motor until there's about an inch of clearance between the oil pan and crossmember and between the bellhousing and firewall, transmission and floor. So long as your oil pan and headers aren't hanging more than an inch below the bottom of the framerails, you'll be in good shape. Finally, a 2-3 degree rake toward the tailshaft will make sure your alignment with the rearend is spot on. Once you get the engine to this point, it's time to weld on the tubular mounts.
>>Join the conversation about installing a new IFS in an old F-100 right here in Ford-trucks.com.
5. Steering in the Right Direction
After you've welded the engine mounts in place, support the tailshaft of the transmission using a jack and check to make sure your transmission mount fits properly. After installing the headers, you'll be able to mock up and install the steering components. In the case of this installation, an additional U-joint was needed to mate the rack-and-pinion with the steering column. The U-joint was measured and trimmed for a perfect fit. And just like that, this old F-100 was ready to house its new/old FE!
>>Join the conversation about installing a new IFS in an old F-100 right here in Ford-trucks.com.
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