Need a "new" engine.....

[luderchris]

The 1969 351W in my Bronco is in bad shape. It apparently has a bad case of blow-by. Although it doesn't blow smoke, it is pushing oil out of the valve cover vent, dipstick hole, and intake manifold gasket. I don't have a very accurate history of the engine.

Please keep in mind my knowledge of engines is pretty limited.

If I go the route of picking up a recently rebuilt/low mile engine to drop in, what should I look for?

I would love to go fuel injected, but I don't think that is in the cards right now (but I am still looking for opinions), but I would like to stick with the 351 since it is set up for that.

Do I have to find a carburated engine or can I find a fuel injected engine and remove the fuel injection components and swap over my current carburated components? Basically what should I look for????

I may attempt the swap in my garage, but would consider paying an individual/shop to do it for a reasonable price. Any suggestions in the PA/NJ/DE/MD area?

Thanks in advance for the help!!!

Chris

 

[Explorer]

Do you have a PCV system installed? That helps a good bit. You shouldn't have anything leaking on the intake gasket.

 

[ep67bro]

Why not rebuild the engine you have? If it runs but is just worn out rebuit it. It would be alot cheaper than the other options you spoke of.
I am always nervious of buying a used engine. You never know what you are getting. If you rebuild it at least you know what you got. I guess you could also get a rebuilt long block from Jasper or some other reman shop.

 

[Heus33]

Just how "bad" is it? Blow-by isn't necessarily a terrible thing - worn rings doesn't mean you absolutely have to have a new engine. Check your PCV valve (if it rattles its most likely good). You can also try a can of RESTORE with each oil change and step up to a 20W50 oil to help.

 

[luderchris]

PCV is set up.

I could have a rebuild done, but how much $$$ would that be? I was thinking of just using a low mile (under 60k miles) engine off of Craigslist. Looks like there are some options out there for $300-$400.

 

[broncnaz]

Well if you could score a low mileage engine that would be great but you still dont know what your getting until you have it. Pretty much and 351W will work yes you can pull the EFI stuff off and just installl your carbed stuff. The only thing you may want to be aware of is if its a 94 up engione it could have a roller cam and you will need a steel gear for your dizzy but other than that theres little differance between the years.

 

[ep67bro]

Well if the engne dosent need a machine work then a basic rebuild (new rings bearings seals) would be around $200. But the prices can go up if you get pistons and other items. A 351 with under 60,000 miles seems a little fishy considering they have not made the motor in 13 years! But I am sure there are a few out there.

 

[72-Madisyn]

The current 302 I have in my 72 I bought used off of craigslist. the seller was smart, and for that matter so was I, as the motor was still in the rig when I went to check it out. If it wasnt I wouldnt have bought a used motor. When I got there he had it ready to fire, compression gauge sitting there, he was even ready to pull the heads off to let me inspect the new pistons that were put in at rebuild. I heard it run for a few minutes, and from there didnt even need to do anything else but get my money out. If you can find one in a rig it is your best bet, that way you can at least hear it run, go through a compression check if you feel the need etc. Personal experience is plan on at least $1000 for even a quick rebuild if you are paying someone to do it. It is time consuming and parts add up quick! good luck

 

[Mikekerney]

Check this out. 351 with 46,000 miles out of an E350.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/pts/1787236148.html

 

[luderchris]

I saw that one -- there are actually quite a few like that within driving distance of me.

My plan right now is to temporarily "patch up/Bandaid" the severe blow-by that I have and do an engine swap next winter.

After all -- I have an MEB East Coast Round-up to attend next weekend!!!!