We are gathering facts on my buddies F1. Presently it has what we consider the stock driveline. Should be original, but he is not the original owner. So it has a 6 cylinder. 215 cu in engine, and a three speed tranny (3 on the tree) Stock rear end..... as he contemplates direction, many friends are saying chevy 350. I suggested Ford 300. SO that being said... This 3 speed tranny, we are not sure what it is, where they reliable strong or a cause for concern? I suggested a top loader out of a 1987 ish F150.... The question is, will a 300 6 bolt to the stock tranny? and Does the 300 6 have the same engine mounts? Any other suggestion would be good, so feel free...
No its not the original motor, unless this is some sort of crazy mistake by Ford. The 215 was not used until 52 and 53. Their is a light and heavy duty 3 speed, and they are just that. No, a 300 will not bolt to in or to the transmission. In fact a 300 is on the long side for fitting in that engine compartment, doable, yes, but not bolt in.
Those light 3 speeds are kinda weak and the ratios suck pretty bad. They will hold up OK with the stock drive train though. The 215 is a good motor, It's bigger brother 223 is good too, but they are no powerhouse. Mine has a flathead V8 which works great for me. I think the 300 six would work great in these trucks and look like they would fit without many mods. What is the plan for the truck? Just a cruiser?
300 six is a great engine. Maybe put a T5 behind it, the overdrive would sure be nice on the highway. THat's my only regret on my '51 F1, I stayed with the flathead and stock 3 speed floor shit. I think i'll be upgrading to a T5 at some point. I've heard various things about the original 3-speeds. Mine came out of a '52, someone said it was the first year they had synchros. They don't hold up to a lot of hp, but I'm not making much more than 170hp.
The plan is, a reliable cruiser, with out loosing the look.... Guys are tellin him to graft another front end on, box and do a Mustang II yada yada yada... His truck sits nice. Could use a slight rake in the front, perhaps 2 inch drop..... He would like to tow his small enclosed trailer and HD to Bike Week.... No burn outs, but get on it on the freeway and enjoy it.... I told him the straight axle is great.... I wish I had one I first said, send out the 215 for a rebuild, but then wondered if the 300 was better? I am sure it is, but can the 215 be made just as good? I am apposed to the 350/350 combo, which he is also getting pressure to do. I would wrather go 302 or 351 w at that point.... Just lookin at options before we gather parts for next winters project.
Maybe its just me but-a 302 with a t-5 makes for an easy install.there all over the place and its a ford in a ford.also you can put in a IFS easy still look stock and have a way better ride.
I am running a crate 302, C-4, and 9" (Ford in a Ford, all Ford!). If your worried about the original engine and being original, leave the hood closed and enjoy the ride. On todays freeways you need to keep-up, some kid texting will slam into you if you are doing only 55. Best of luck with the build! Pic's of my enigine in my photo album.
300 six , Y-block , FE , ANYTHING but a 350 sbc ...worlds most boring setup in an old Ford . Keep it Ford in Ford . T
I say 300 six. it's my second favorite motor. . . besides the 250 chevy six, but it would be a shame to put one in that truck.
The Jalopy Journal
