How to Build Small Block Fords
Building, or rebuilding, an engine can add considerable longevity to that engine. When rebuilding a small-block Ford, keep in mind the purpose of the engine, and how much you are willing to spend on the build. Most often, the engine will be used for your short-distance commute to and from work. Rarely will it see the top side of 5,000 rpm (revolutions per minute). A typical engine build costs around $1,500, but it can easily top $10,000 or more for racing applications.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Choose an appropriate engine. There are many different-sized small-block Fords to choose, and they all have unique characteristics. The best choice for a truck or muscle car is usually a 351 Windsor motor, as this engine has the largest displacement (351 cubic inches), and thus power potential, of all small-block Fords. If the engine will be used in a smaller or lower-performance vehicle, a 289- or 302-cubic-inch V8 is better suited. When choosing an engine, keep its origin in mind. If it was used in a tow truck or race car, the engine has likely been abused, and will not last long, even after a rebuild.
-
2
Disassemble the engine. Be careful when taking the engine apart to label and photograph, as needed, to ensure proper placement of new parts. As you disassemble the engine, pay attention to the condition of parts, and plan to replace worn-out or damaged components. Once the engine is completely disassembled, it should be thoroughly cleaned and tested to ensure structural integrity. You can either clean the engine at home with soap and a high-pressure washer, or take the engine to a machine shop and have it "hot tanked." Since the engine needs to be tested and machined, it also makes sense to have them clean it. Magnaflux and sonic testing should always be performed to detect any cracks or thin spots in the engine block.
-
-
3
Install new parts as needed. The only way to know for sure what parts must be replaced is to inspect the old ones. However, certain parts should almost always be replaced. These include the crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, camshaft, camshaft lifters, valve springs, push rods, oil pump, water pump, all hoses and lines, spark plugs, spark plug wires, and all gaskets, seals, and bearings. Anything else is up to personal preference or need.
-
4
Reassemble the engine. Always use factory-specified torque ratings for all bolts and fasteners. Use appropriate lubrication on all bearing surfaces and other moving parts. Pay close attention to gasket and bearing placement and orientation, as a backwards gasket or bearing could result in catastrophic engine failure.
-
5
Start the engine. Proper engine start-up procedures include priming the oil system, (by manually rotating the oil pump with a drill), correcting the engine timing (the timing mark should be at TDC or top dead center), breaking in the camshaft (idle the engine for 30 minutes at 1,200 rpm), and burping the coolant system (open the radiator cap just enough to let excess air out while the engine runs). This process will ensure a long life for the engine.
-
1
