Installing my replacement engine, any tips?

[Remos69]

I received my replacement 351w engine from ATK, the only thing returned off the old engine was the intake manifold they told me. Problem with the old engine was a stuck valve in the #2 cylinder and the bent pushrod for that valve for a 0 compression. Engine had 18 miles and 1.5 hrs of run time. I will be checking the torque on the valves and intake, installing the engine and associated things the were removed when it was taken out. I'll mark the distributor, priming the oil (using break-in oil) checking the compression for each cylinder. Just looking for any tips on what I may have missed or need to do after it is running. Little gun shy!

 

[73azbronco]

You have a ford engine rebuild book I hope, that says all.

 

[crab]

I haven’t been following how you got to where you are, but sounds like you received a replacement engine after the first one failed? If this is a reputable shop, sh!+ happens and I wouldn’t worry about checking torque specs etc. Otherwise, I’m not sure why you would have somebody else assemble the long block? I’d prime the pump like you stated and fire it up, holding the RPMs at roughly 2k for 20mins or so, listening for any unusual sounds. Make sure your gauges work and stay in spec. If it’s a roller cam, just run it!
I had a reputable guy forget to tighten the rod bolts which ended up on the frame rail during break in. The replacement engine was the best engine I’ve ever put in an EB. Hopefully this will be your experience!

 

[B RON CO]

Hi, if you have a clutch make sure the pilot bushing is in the crank and has a touch of grease. If you have an automatic make sure there is no pilot bearing.
Good luck

 

[Remos69]

Thanks all, it was an ATK crate engine. Install finished today, running ok, will have to adjust the fitech, not running as smooth as I like it.

 

[snipi]

Please keep us updated! I am considering ATKs 351w 300hp/377lbft model right now and would love to hear about your experience.

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[Remos69]

Installed and running!!! Was able to take the bronco home yesterday through rush hour traffic! Nerve racking to say the least. Interesting note, oil pan on the original engine was huge! Put 6 quarts in and could not see oil on the dipstick!! We thought the pan was bigger than normal, but we're not sure until we received the replacement engine. Same dipstick reads full at 6 quarts.

Also, the distributor was marked, only problem it was 180 reg out! Checked the engine out thoroughly this time, checking torque spec on the rockers and intake. All good and felt good. Engine started fine and set timing initially to 36 reg. Still running a bit rough, but will tweek the timing and fitech over the coming days. Lastly the didn't plug either of the dipstick ports. The one on the timing cove and the block were both open. Have a temporary fix until they send me a plug

 

[snipi]

Great to hear you got to drive it! Which package did you go with? Also are you happy with the power level?

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[Remos69]

Hp09m 300hp 377 lb/ft torque. Need to work on the timing and tune the fitech, but is a bit more juice than the old 302! Drove it a few miles today,. Have not had over 45 mph yet. Will play more in the coming week.

 

[snipi]

Cool! I'm considering that same long block with eldelbrock efi! I'll keep following to see how it does!

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[bronconut73]

I have been running an ATK 351 Windsor since '93(?)....or thereabouts.
Has always been fantastic.
I have since had the heads off for machine work to support studs for roller rockers and guide plates.
Also Rhoades lifters and an Erson cam a little hotter than the Edelbrock Performer cam.
So not only was it great for years as a stocker but also as a modified sbf. Still outstanding.
My engine was only $675.00 lol....
It was the early 90's...